In a remarkable discovery for biodiversity research, scientists have confirmed the presence of the rare Black-spot Royal butterfly Tajuria luculentus in Sikkim, marking the first record of the species in the state. The finding, published in the March–June 2025 issue of Bionotes by the Butterfly Research Centre, Bhimtal, expands the known habitat range of the butterfly, previously confined to Manipur, Meghalaya, and Nepal.
The discovery was made by local researchers Sonam Wangchuk Lepcha, Monish Kumar Thapa, Sonam Pintso Sherpa, and Nosang M. Limboo during a field survey on April 19 in Noam Panang, Dzongu, North Sikkim. The butterfly was spotted perched high in a tree among 30 to 35 other species, confirming its existence in Sikkim’s thriving ecosystem.
Sikkim, already renowned for its butterfly diversity with over 720 documented species, continues to prove its ecological richness. The Dzongu region alone has recorded more than 428 species, with experts suggesting that many more remain undiscovered.
The Black-spot Royal, a Schedule I species under the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, is noted for its vivid blue hue and distinctive black wing markings. Belonging to the Lycaenidae family, the butterfly was also recently recorded in Arunachal Pradesh, reinforcing the Eastern Himalayas’ role as a critical refuge for rare and endangered species.
Researchers say the discovery not only deepens understanding of butterfly distribution in the region but also strengthens the case for continued conservation and documentation efforts in Sikkim’s fragile mountain ecosystems.