Species diversity and abundance of butterfly fauna in four selected habitats in Sinharaja man and biosphere (MAB) reserve

A comprehensive study of butterfly fauna in Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Man and Biosphere Reserve, reveals significant rediscoveries and habitat-specific diversity patterns. The research recorded 124 butterfly species across four habitats—primary forest, secondary forest, disturbed areas, and Pinus plantations—including 10 endemic and 32 nationally threatened species. Notably, the Brown Onyx (Horaga albimacula) was rediscovered after 80 years, while the Banded Redeye (Gangara lebadea subfasciata) and Lesser Gull (Cepora nadina) were found after 65 years. Secondary forests exhibited the highest species diversity (H′ = 2.169), with Satyridae and Nymphalidae being the most abundant families, though their dominance varied by habitat type. The study highlights the critical role of secondary forests in maintaining butterfly biodiversity while underscoring the need for conservation efforts to protect these threatened species.

Rajapakshe, R. M. S., Sandun, M., Perera, J., & Kudawidanage, E. P. (2012). Species diversity and abundance of butterfly fauna in four selected habitats in Sinharaja man and biosphere (MAB) reserve. Proceedings of International Forestry and Environment Symposium, 12(0). https://doi.org/10.31357/fesympo.v12i0.412