Seasonal diversity of butterflies with reference to habitat heterogeneity, larval host plants and nectar plants at Taki, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India

Understanding the significance of butterflies in an ecosystem as an environmental healthy indicator and pollination of flowering plants is crucial to achieve sustainability and conservation of floral diversity. The aim of the study is to investigate the butterfly species diversity and abundance and compare the relationship between physical factors and butterfly species at Taki, North 24 Parganas. Survey of six habitats, each containing specific ecological and socio economic profile was conducted. Diversity varies among habitats. Seasonal parameters also play vital roles as the distribution factors for local butterflies. A checklist is made comprising a total of 51 butterfly species belonging to 5 families. Sixty eight species of plants belonging to 28 families served as the larval host plants and 36 species of plants belonging to 20 families served as the nectar plants for butterflies. Maximum number of individuals found at SC (Surrounding College, College Ground, College Hostel Ground) site. The highest species richness and abundance are reported during the post monsoon. The abundance pattern is correlated to the foliage and nutritional support provided by the host plants, both at developmental and at adult stages. Nymphalidae is the most dominant family with 37% of the total number of species