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Investigation of Butterfly Species in Gairsain block of Chamoli District, Uttarakhand, India

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Author Affiliations

  • 1Department of Zoology, SSJDWSSS GPG College Ranikhet–263645, Uttarakhand, India
  • 2Department of Zoology, SSJDWSSS GPG College Ranikhet–263645, Uttarakhand, India
  • 3Department of Mathematics, SSJDWSSS GPG College Ranikhet–263645, Uttarakhand, India

Int. Res. J. Biological Sci., Volume 14, Issue (4), Pages 11-17, November,10 (2025)

Abstract

Butterflies are vital indicators of ecological health and also enhance the aesthetic value of habitats. This study examines the butterfly species, abundance and diversity from the Gairsain block in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, India. Field surveys were carried out from March 2023 to March 2025 in the study area. In the study area, we noted 2,223 individuals, 61 species across 6 families & 18 subfamilies within the super family Papilionoidea, during the research. The Nymphalidae family is dominant at 36%, followed by Pieridae at 21%, Lycaenidae at 18%, Papilionidae at 10%, Hesperiidae at 10%, and Riodinidae at 5%, making it the least common. Notably, species listed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 2022, such as Delias sanaca (Schedule I) and Graphium cloanthus (Schedule II), were also documented. The results highlight the region's rich butterfly diversity and emphasise the importance of conserving local habitats to sustain a healthy environment. This research provides a valuable baseline for future studies, conservation efforts, and the promotion of butterfly-based ecotourism in Uttarakhand.

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