Context:

Recently, a new species of Silverline butterfly has been recognized within the biodiversity-rich regions of the Western Ghats in India. 

New Silverline Butterfly Species Discovered in Karnataka

• The findings were officially published in the journal Zootaxa.
• The documented specimens were located in Honey Valley within the Kodagu district of Karnataka.
• It was first spotted in 2008 by Krushnamegh Kunte during a 2008 field trip to Iruppu Falls in Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary but came under extensive research in 2021.

About New Silverline Butterfly

• This unique species is named Cigaritis conjunctiva or the “conjoined silverline.” 
• Naming and Identification: Named “conjoined silverline” due to its distinctive wing pattern.
• Classification: It belongs to the Lycaenidae family.
  • In India, there are 16 species of silverline butterflies.  11 of them are found in both peninsular India and Sri Lanka.

Habitat and Location of Silverline Butterfly

• Primarily found in dense mid-elevation evergreen forests in Honey Valley, Kodagu district, Karnataka.
• It marks the second endemic species discovered in the Western Ghats.

Distinct Wing Patterns Silverline Butterfly

• Appears similar at a distance but unique upon closer inspection.
• Fused bands on the underside of the wings set it apart.

News Source: DownToEarth

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