The discovery of a new butterfly species in Kerala’s Western Ghats has excited scientists and conservationists alike. Named Zographetus mathewi, this small but significant butterfly reveals just how much of India’s biodiversity—especially in the Western Ghats, a globally recognised hotspot—remains underexplored. The identification of this species not only adds to the growing list of Indian endemics but also reinforces the importance of preserving low-elevation forests.
Indian scientists uncover new butterfly species in Kerala: Zographetus Mathewi
A team of Indian researchers has discovered Zographetus Mathewi, a previously undocumented butterfly species, in the low-elevation forests of Kerala’s Western Ghats. Belonging to the skipper butterfly family (Hesperiidae), this rare species is now recognised as the 15th species in the genus Zographetus and the fifth to be recorded from India.Initially mistaken for the more widespread Zographetus ogygia, the butterfly was later confirmed as a new species following detailed analysis of wing venation, scaling patterns, and genital morphology. The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Entomon, add to the growing evidence that the Western Ghats harbour a wealth of undiscovered insect biodiversity.This discovery is the result of collaborative fieldwork and taxonomic research by experts from:
- Travancore Nature History Society (TNHS)
- Institute of Tropical Research, Ecology and Conservation (INTREC), Thiruvananthapuram
- Zoological Survey of India
Why the name Zographetus Mathewi for this newly discovered butterfly?
The species is named in honour of George Mathew, a renowned Indian entomologist and former Head of the Entomology Division at Kerala Forest Research Institute. In line with its geographical origin, its common name has been proposed as the Sahyadri Spotted Flitter, reflecting its native range—the Sahyadri hills, the local name for the Western Ghats.
Key traits and habitat of Zographetus Mathewi
Zographetus Mathewi belongs to the Zographetus satwa species group, recognised for its unique morphological traits and sexual dimorphism. This newly identified butterfly stands out due to its yellow-ochre scaling on the underside of the hindwing, hairy forewings with a basal hair tuft, and swollen forewing veins in males, which serve as secondary sexual characteristics. It also exhibits distinct genital structures in both males and females—key features that distinguish it from similar species such as Zographetus ogygia.Although adult sightings are extremely rare—only one adult specimen has been documented—researchers found several larvae and pupae in the wild, suggesting the species may have a broader distribution than previously believed. The larvae feed on Aganope thyrsiflora, a native leguminous vine from the Fabaceae family. Observations were made in various lowland forested areas across Kerala, including Kallar, Shendurney, Edamalayar, and Nilambur, all located at elevations below 600 metres. These findings confirm that Z. Mathewi is endemic to the low-elevation tropical forests of the Western Ghats, an ecosystem that continues to yield remarkable biodiversity discoveries through ongoing scientific research.
Why this discovery of new butterfly matters for biodiversity and conservation
The identification of Zographetus Mathewi holds more than just taxonomic value—it draws attention to the fragile ecosystems of lowland forests, which are often ignored in conservation planning. The discovery highlights the need for:
- Detailed field surveys and scientific documentation
- Conservation of lesser-known habitats rich in endemic species
- Public awareness about India’s hidden biodiversity
Moreover, this finding aligns with the Kerala government’s recent declaration of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as India’s first official butterfly sanctuary, showcasing a growing commitment to butterfly conservation in the state.Zographetus Mathewi is more than just a new butterfly—it’s a symbol of the biological richness that still lies hidden in India’s forests. Its discovery not only adds to our understanding of native butterfly fauna but also serves as a call to action for stronger habitat protection, especially in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats.Also Read: NASA confirms 3I/ATLAS as third interstellar object passing through our solar system
