Source: TH
Context: A new study has revealed that the overexploitation of 25 medicinally valuable host plant species is endangering the swallowtail butterflies in the forest habitats of a region in Assam, commonly known as the “citrus belt of the world.”
About Swallowtail butterflies:
- Scientific name: Family Papilionidae (e.g., Papilio machaon, Papilio slateri).
- Types: Includes species like the Blue-striped mime (Papilio slateri), Bhutan glory (Bhutanitis lidderdalii), and Kaiser-i-Hind (Teinopalpus imperialis).
- Distribution: Found globally, with 69 species in India’s Northeast.
- IUCN Status: Some species are globally endangered.
- Features: Large, colorful butterflies with forked hindwings resembling a swallow’s tail.
- Threats
- Overexploitation of host plants including citrus plant (medicinal use).
- Illegal tree felling and deforestation.
- Illegal cattle farming in protected areas.
- Tea cultivation and pesticide use near habitats.
- Habitat destruction due to shrinking forest cover.
- Swallowtail Conservation Action Plan
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- The IUCN has designated India’s Northeast as a “Swallowtail-rich zone,” focusing on conservation efforts in this region to protect 69 species through habitat preservation and sustainable plant use.
- Citrus Plant
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- Scientific Name: Rutaceae family.
- Distribution: Found in Assam’s “citrus belt” with 52 varieties.
- Reason for decline: Overharvesting for medicinal purposes and loss of natural habitats.
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