Diversity and Economic Importance of Butterflies in Chotanagpur Plateau: A Review

This analysis evaluates the richness of butterflies (Lepidoptera) in the Chotanagpur Plateau, which is a region with tropical
dry deciduous woods and undulating hilly terrain. Recent research in Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhatishgarh and West Bengal (Purulia) has been synthesized to reveal a rich butterfly faunal composition with 140-160+ species in six major families: Nymphalidae, Lycaenidae, Pieridae, Papilionidae, Hesperiidae, and Riodinidae. With roughly 35-40% of all known species, Nymphalidae emerges as the leading family, followed by Lycaenidae. Due to favourable floral resources and humidity, diversity indices show significant species richness throughout the post-monsoon and winter seasons. On the other hand, during the hottest summer
months, richness decreases. The existence of species covered by the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 is one of the noteworthy discoveries. The review emphasizes that high biodiversity is supported by habitat variation, however growing urbanization and habitat fragmentation presents serious risks. This summary emphasizes the necessity of longterm monitoring and targeted conservation measures to protect the plateau's distinctive lepidopteran legacy. From this review it can be inferred that Chotanagpur Plateau is rich in butterfly diversity with dominance of some families of butterflies. Also, various studies conducted in different locations shows its richness in biodiversity of butterfly species. These findings will help to continue further research and preparing conservation strategies.