Guwahati: In a landmark development for biodiversity science and eco-tourism, the First-Ever High-Altitude Butterfly and Biodiversity Meet held in Mechukha on July 19–20 led to the first Indian record of two butterfly species, spotlighting the remote Arunachal valley as an emerging hotspot for rare high-altitude species.
Organised by the Department of Tourism, Arunachal Pradesh, the event brought together 72 participants, including students, researchers, and nature enthusiasts from across India. Institutions such as NERIST, Tezpur University, Mizoram University, ATREE, and Digboi College were represented, alongside vibrant participation from local communities.
The most remarkable outcome of the meet was the documentation of two butterfly species never before recorded in India: Metok Green Sapphire (Heliophorus gloria) and Medog Tufted Ace (Sebastonyma medoensis)
Both species were previously known only from southeastern Tibet, particularly the Hanmi and Metok regions, making their discovery in Mechukha a significant range extension and biogeographical milestone.
In total, the two-day event recorded 107 butterfly species, a substantial number for a first-time high-altitude meet. Other rare and notable sightings included:
Tiger-mimic Admiral (Limenitis rileyi) – a new distribution record, Tibetan Brimstone (Gonepteryx amintha thibetana), Bhutan Blackvein (Aporia harrietae harrietae), Scarce Jester, Brown Gorgon, Junglequeen species, and the Giant Hopper, among others.
These findings, according to participating researchers, redefine current understanding of butterfly diversity in the Eastern Himalayas, suggesting that Mechukha Valley may hold many more undocumented species.
Experts believe these multiple first records within a short span confirm the region’s exceptional but understudied ecological wealth, especially for lepidopteran fauna, and make a strong case for positioning Mechukha as a hub for butterfly tourism, citizen science, and conservation research.
Alongside scientific activities, the event engaged students and locals in butterfly walks, biodiversity trails, nature games, and aqua therapy sessions, aimed at cultivating ecological curiosity and environmental learning. Awards were given to school students in public speaking and presentation categories to boost youth involvement.
The final day’s valedictory session at the Nai-Nang Community Development Society (NCDS) Hall was graced by a Lt. Colonel and 2IC of the Sikh Regiment, as well as the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Mechukha. Officials urged local communities to take active leadership in biodiversity preservation, linking conservation with sustainable livelihoods.
Organisers say the first-of-its-kind event has made Mechukha a focal point for biodiversity discovery. The revelations made during the meet are expected to have long-term implications for both scientific study and responsible eco-tourism planning in Arunachal Pradesh’s high-altitude ecosystems.
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