Guwahati: A community forest in Meghalaya's Ri-Bhoi district has emerged as a significant biodiversity hotspot, with a recent study documenting a rich diversity of swallowtail butterflies, including several legally protected species.
The findings highlight both the ecological importance and vulnerability of these landscapes.
The study, conducted by A.D. Marbaniang and S.R. Hajong, recorded 15 species of swallowtail butterflies (Papilionidae) in the Saiden Community Forest over a year-long survey. The research underscores the crucial role community-managed forests play in biodiversity conservation.
Surveying riverine, closed-canopy, and open forest habitats, researchers found that the genus Papilio dominated, accounting for 60% of the species recorded. This was followed by Graphium (23%) and Troides (17%), indicating a healthy and diverse butterfly population typical of Northeast India's ecosystems.
Among the most commonly observed species were Papilio helenus helenus (Red Helen) and Troides helena (Common Birdwing), both known to thrive in well-preserved habitats. In contrast, species such as Papilio clytia and Papilio demoleus were recorded in lower numbers, possibly reflecting sensitivity to habitat disturbance or seasonal changes.
Significantly, four species identified in the study are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act. These include Graphium aristeus, Papilio clytia, and the birdwings Troides aeacus and Troides helena, further elevating the conservation value of the Saiden forest.
The study also found that butterfly diversity reached a plateau with sustained sampling, suggesting that most species present in the area were successfully documented, providing a reliable baseline for future monitoring.
Researchers emphasised that butterflies serve as important bioindicators, with their diversity closely reflecting ecosystem health, particularly in fragile hill forests like those in Meghalaya.
Despite signs of disturbance, the Saiden Community Forest continues to support a stable and diverse butterfly population. The findings reinforce the role of community-managed forests as critical refuges for wildlife.
The study calls for stronger conservation measures, habitat protection, and long-term monitoring, warning that increasing human pressure could threaten these ecologically rich landscapes.