- What is Lepidoptera? Lepidoptera is an order of insects that includes butterflies and moths, characterised by scaled wings.
- India as a hotspot: India is home to about 8.25% of the world’s butterfly and moth species, making it one of the richest countries for Lepidopteran diversity.
- Diversity: India has over 1,500 species of butterflies and more than 13,000 species of moths.
- Major hotspots: The Western Ghats, Eastern Himalayas, Northeast India and Andaman & Nicobar Islands are the richest regions for butterfly and moth diversity.
- Ecological importance: Butterflies and moths are important pollinators, serve as bio-indicators of ecosystem health, and form a vital part of the food chain.
UPSC Prelims Question
Q. With reference to Lepidoptera, consider the following statements:
- Lepidoptera is the insect order that includes butterflies and moths.
- India is home to about 8.25% of the world’s butterfly and moth species.
- Butterflies and moths are important pollinators and indicators of ecosystem health.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 only
Answer: C
Explanation: Lepidoptera comprises butterflies and moths. India is recognised as a Lepidoptera hotspot, harbouring about 8.25% of the world’s species, and these insects play key ecological roles as pollinators and bio-indicators.
