Rediscovery of Ypthima watsoni Moore, 1893 (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Satyrinae) to India and new record to Tripura, North East, India

Abstract

In this paper, the authors documented the rediscovery of Looped Threering Ypthima watsoni Moore, 1893 belonging to subfamily Satyrinae and family Nymphalidae of insect order Lepidoptera near Phuldungsei village in Jampui Hills, North Tripura district, India. The species has not been recorded for approximately 61 years since its last description from India. The first picture of the live butterfly from India is presented with taxonomic description, notes on habit and habitat and discussion on the present status of the species. The rediscovery is based on the survey carried out in Jampui Hillls of North Tripura district on 6 August 2019 at approximately 10.00hr. There is a sufficient gap of more than half century in updating the distribution records and hence claiming the rediscovery of this species for India is justified. This rediscovery is important in the context of updating the status and distribution of the butterfly fauna for Tripura, India.