Daily Current Affairs : 6-August-2024

An exciting discovery has recently been made in India—the rediscovery of the great four-ring butterfly (Ypthima cantliei). According to a study published by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), this butterfly species, which was last seen 61 years ago, has been spotted again in Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh, India.

Rediscovery After Decades

The great four-ring butterfly was last recorded in 1957 in Margherita, Assam. After that, it disappeared from the records, and there were no confirmed sightings for over six decades. However, in 2018, researchers conducting studies in Namdapha National Park stumbled upon this rare species. The rediscovery of this butterfly is a significant milestone for conservationists and entomologists in India, as it is a rare species with limited known habitat.

Characteristics of the Great Four-Ring Butterfly

The great four-ring butterfly is part of the Satyrinae subfamily, which includes many species of butterflies found around the world, especially in China. It is distinct from other butterflies in the Ypthima genus because of its larger size and its brown-grey wings, which feature distinctive yellow-ringed eye spots.

Key characteristics:

  • Color: The wings are dull brown-grey with striking yellow-ringed spots that resemble eyes.
  • Size: It is larger than other species within the Ypthima genus.
  • Habitat: Primarily found in regions like China, and now rediscovered in India.

Importance of the Rediscovery

This rediscovery highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats like Namdapha National Park. Many species, especially rare butterflies like the great four-ring, rely on protected environments to survive. The rediscovery is also a reminder of the biodiversity that exists in India, particularly in the northeastern regions, which are home to many unique species.

Rediscovery of the Great Four-Ring Butterfly in India
Courtesy: The Hindu

Important Points:

  • Rediscovery of the Great Four-Ring Butterfly: The butterfly (Ypthima cantliei) has been rediscovered in Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh, India, after 61 years.
  • Last Seen in 1957: The butterfly was last recorded in Margherita, Assam, in 1957, and had not been seen again until 2018.
  • Significance of the Rediscovery: The rediscovery is a major milestone for conservationists and entomologists in India, as the butterfly is a rare species with a limited known habitat.
  • Physical Characteristics:
    • Color: Brown-grey wings with yellow-ringed eye spots.
    • Size: Larger than other species in the Ypthima genus.
    • Habitat: Primarily found in China, now rediscovered in India.
  • Importance for Conservation: The rediscovery highlights the significance of preserving natural habitats like Namdapha National Park, which supports unique and rare species.
  • Biodiversity Reminder: The rediscovery serves as a reminder of the rich biodiversity in northeastern India, which is home to many unique species.
  • Symbol of Hope for Conservation: The return of the great four-ring butterfly symbolizes the importance of protecting natural ecosystems and the potential for new discoveries in unexplored areas.

Why In News

A four-ringed butterfly, the great four-ring (Ypthima cantliei), has been rediscovered in India after 61 years, according to a study published by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), marking a significant milestone in the conservation of rare butterfly species. This rediscovery has sparked renewed interest in the biodiversity of India’s northeastern regions, particularly in the Namdapha National Park, where the butterfly was found.

MCQs about Rediscovery of the Great Four-Ring Butterfly in India

  1. Where was the great four-ring butterfly (Ypthima cantliei) rediscovered in India?
    A. Sikkim
    B. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh
    C. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
    D. Sundarbans, West Bengal
    Correct Answer: B. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh
    Explanation: The great four-ring butterfly was rediscovered in Namdapha National Park, located in Arunachal Pradesh, India, after being last recorded in 1957.
  2. How many years had passed since the great four-ring butterfly was last seen in India?
    A. 51 years
    B. 61 years
    C. 71 years
    D. 81 years
    Correct Answer: B. 61 years
    Explanation: The great four-ring butterfly was last seen in 1957 in Margherita, Assam. It was rediscovered in 2018, marking a gap of 61 years.
  3. Which feature distinguishes the great four-ring butterfly from other species in the Ypthima genus?
    A. Its bright yellow color
    B. Its larger size and distinctive yellow-ringed eye spots
    C. Its green wings with white spots
    D. Its ability to fly at high altitudes
    Correct Answer: B. Its larger size and distinctive yellow-ringed eye spots
    Explanation: The great four-ring butterfly is larger than other species in the Ypthima genus and has brown-grey wings with yellow-ringed eye spots, making it easily distinguishable.
  4. What does the rediscovery of the great four-ring butterfly emphasize in terms of conservation?
    A. The need for more butterfly farms
    B. The importance of preserving natural habitats and biodiversity
    C. The effectiveness of butterfly breeding programs
    D. The need to introduce more butterfly species to India
    Correct Answer: B. The importance of preserving natural habitats and biodiversity
    Explanation: The rediscovery of the great four-ring butterfly highlights the need to protect natural habitats like Namdapha National Park, which play a critical role in preserving biodiversity and supporting rare species.

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