DIVERSITY, ABUNDANCE AND FORAGE PLANT ASSOCIATION IN RELATION WITH PROBOSCIS LENGTH OF SELECTED BUTTERFLY SPECIES IN KERALA VETERINARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES UNIVERSITY’S POOKODE CAMPUS
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Date
2023-03-22
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KVASU CENTRE FOR WILDLIFE STUDIES KERALA VETERINARY AND ANIMAL SCIENCES UNIVERSITY POOKODE, WAYANAD
Abstract
Diversity, abundance and forage plant association with the proboscis length of selected species of butterflies of Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University’s Pookode Campus were studied over three months. Some butterflies are recognised as being biological indicators, it is crucial to periodically study their biodiversity in a habitat to ensure the health of an ecosystem. The protection of butterflies as an umbrella species, ensures the protection of other related organisms. A total of 89 species were recorded during the study period. The survey was conducted using width transects count method. The majority of butterfly species belonged to the family Nymphalidae and Lycanidae. The study reported 439 individuals, with Jamides celeno being the most common species, followed by Ypthima huebneri and Junonia iphita. According to the study, resting was followed by foraging as the most frequently observed behaviour, while mating and mud-puddling were the least prevalent. Vegetation was also identified and noted during the study period. A total of 54 species of shrubs and herbs were found in the study area, of which herbs dominated the shrub species. The length of the foraging flower corolla tube and proboscis were measured manually in mm. According to the study, most of the selected butterflies preferred tubular flowers and the relation between corolla length and proboscis length were positively correlated.