A Study on Butterfly Diversity in the Sagar District of the Bundelkhand Region, Central India
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Abstract
Butterflies are widely recognized as important bioindicators and charismatic species for biodiversity conservation and environmental monitoring. The present study investigates the diversity, seasonal variation, and distribution patterns of butterflies in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, India, with the aim of providing baseline data for ecological assessment and conservation planning. Surveys were conducted across multiple study sites, including university campus, urban localities, and semi-natural habitats, over five months from January to May 2026. The study documented 34 butterfly species belonging to five families and associated with 23 nectar plant species. Nymphalidae was the most dominant family (41.2%), reflecting considerable butterfly diversity in the study area. The study revealed significant seasonal fluctuation, with the highest abundance and diversity observed during the monsoon and post-monsoon period, while comparatively lower diversity was recorded in winter months. Family-wise distribution showed dominance of certain groups, reflecting habitat suitability and resource availability. The findings emphasize the ecological importance of maintaining habitat heterogeneity and plant diversity to support butterfly populations. This study provides essential insights into butterfly biodiversity in Sagar and highlights its relevance for future conservation strategies and sustainable urban and regional planning.
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