Cigaritis meghamalaiensis: A Newly Discovered Butterfly from the Western Ghats

 

Introduction

The discovery of new species always enriches our understanding of biodiversity. In 2025, researchers described a new butterfly species named Cigaritis meghamalaiensis, marking a significant milestone in Indian entomology. This is the first butterfly species to be described from the Western Ghats in the last 33 years, highlighting the ecological richness of this global biodiversity hotspot.

Discovery and Habitat

The species belongs to the genus Cigaritis, commonly known as Silverlines. Researchers first encountered the butterfly in 2018 during explorations in the high elevations of Periyar in Idukki, Kerala. Subsequent field studies confirmed its restricted distribution, showing that the butterfly is confined to the Meghamalai hills and the adjoining Periyar Tiger Reserve in the southern Western Ghats.

This limited geographical presence makes it an important species for conservation, as its habitat lies within fragile montane ecosystems.

Unique Features and Appearance

The new species can be easily distinguished from other members of the genus by its wing patterns.

• On the underside of the forewings, the discal and post-discal bands are conjoined and lie parallel from their origin at the costa.
• This characteristic makes it unique among all known Cigaritis species in Peninsular India and Sri Lanka.

In total, seven species of Cigaritis are reported from the Western Ghats, namely:

1. C. vulcanus
2. C. schistacea
3. C. ictis
4. C. elima elima
5. C. lohita lazularia
6. C. lilacinus
7. C. abnormis

Of these, all except C. lilacinus have been reported from the southern Western Ghats, highlighting the region’s significance for butterfly diversity.

Importance of the Discovery

• The identification of Cigaritis meghamalaiensis underscores the rich but still understudied biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
• As a newly described species, it emphasizes the need for continued field research and taxonomic studies.
• The butterfly’s confined range makes it vulnerable to habitat changes, calling for focused conservation strategies.

Periyar Tiger Reserve: The Habitat of the New Butterfly

The Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India, provides the natural home for Cigaritis meghamalaiensis.

Key Facts about Periyar Tiger Reserve

• Location: Western Ghats, Kerala
• Named after: River Periyar, which originates within the reserve
• Drainage: Pamba and Periyar rivers flow through the region
• Vegetation: Tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests
• Flora: Includes teak, rosewood, jamun, tamarind, mangoes, jacarandas, bamboos, and more
• Fauna: Rich wildlife including elephants, wild pigs, sambar, gaur, mouse deer, barking deer, Indian wild dogs, and tigers

The reserve also hosts several indigenous tribal communities, such as the Mannans and Palians, who coexist with the natural environment.

Conclusion

The discovery of Cigaritis meghamalaiensis after more than three decades signifies that the Western Ghats still hold unexplored treasures of biodiversity. Protecting these ecosystems is vital not only for such newly discovered species but also for the ecological balance of the entire region. This finding serves as a reminder that continuous scientific exploration and conservation efforts are essential in one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes.