NEPTIS PHILYRA (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Neptis philyra

• About: It is a rare species of butterfly, commonly known as the long-streak sailor.
• Geographical Distribution: Till date, the butterfly species was known to be found across various regions of east Asia, including eastern Siberia, Korea, Japan, central and southwest China.
• Distinct Wing Characteristics: The butterfly has serrated wings with rich brownish-black on the upper side and yellow-brown on the underside.
• Unique Markings: The butterfly’s distinct markings include a white cell streak forming a “hockey stick” pattern on the forewing.
• Habitat Preferences: The species, which is part of the Nymphalidae family, is known to prefer habitats such as evergreen forests, riverine vegetation, and rocky streams.

Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

• About: it is situated near the Apatani cultural landscape in the Lower Subansiri District of Arunachal Pradesh.
• River Flow: The sanctuary is traversed by rivers such as Pange, Sipu, Karing, and Subansiri, enhancing its ecological diversity.
• Flora: It boasts a remarkable array of subtropical and alpine flora, including silver fir trees, ferns, orchids, bamboo, and rhododendrons.
• Fauna: Tale Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including the elusive clouded leopard, the Himalayan squirrel, the Himalayan black bear, and many other species.