New plant drive boosts butterfly habitat at Trichy conservatory
The effort is part of a larger push to improve butterfly habitats and boost species diversity at the state's only tropical conservatory.
"We are taking continuous and focused steps to strengthen butterfly conservation at TBCT," said Trichy district forest officer S Krithiga. "Most recently, we introduced a new batch of host and nectar plants, a hundred varieties each, sourced from across the country."
Established in 2015 near Melur at a cost of ₹8 crore, TBCT began with just 25 identified butterfly species.
Over the years, thanks to sustained efforts in habitat improvement, the number has grown to 131. "The increase in identified species is a result of our ongoing conservation work," Krithiga said.
Host plants play a critical role in the butterfly life cycle. They serve as sites for egg-laying and food for the larvae, which undergo metamorphosis into pupae and finally emerge as adult butterflies. Once matured, butterflies rely on nectar plants for nutrition required for flight, reproduction, and survival.
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Researchers at TBCT point out that butterfly populations are under threat globally due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. "Butterflies are vital pollinators," said M John, a researcher at the conservatory. "They transfer pollen from flower to flower, and many of the butterflies that emerge here eventually move beyond the conservatory, contributing to the larger environment."
Research fellow M Nishalini added that the conservatory's garden layout helps maintain a microclimate conducive to butterfly breeding.
"By regulating temperature and humidity and keeping pollution levels low, we create favourable conditions for their survival and growth," she said.
The nectar plants provide essential nutrients, including carbohydrates and amino acids, that support various functions such as flight and reproduction. Alongside the host and nectar plants, TBCT has introduced over 30 varieties each of medicinal and herbal plants to further enrich the ecosystem.
Rare species spotted at the conservatory include the Southern Birdwing (Troides minos), Commander (Moduza procris), Spotted Joker (Byblia ilithyia), Common Palmfly (Elymnias hypermnestra), and Peacock Royal (Tajuria cippus). Common species include Blue Tiger, Plain Tiger, Emigrant, Common Crow, and Grass Yellow.
Interactive displays and amphitheatre-based visual presentations are used at TBCT to raise awareness among visitors about biodiversity and ecological conservation. Trichy forest range officer V P Subramaniyam noted that the growing butterfly diversity could also boost eco-tourism. "This could bring in more visitors and help generate revenue for the forest department," he said.
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