Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) Prepares First-Ever National Checklist of India's Butterflies and Moths
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has prepared the first-ever comprehensive national checklist of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) found in India, documenting 13,703 species. Compiled over 12 years under the leadership of Dr. Navneet Singh and Dr. Rahul Joshi, this catalogue will serve as a vital reference for future research and biodiversity conservation. The species in the list are classified into 102 families, 240 subfamilies, 3,705 genera, and 31 superfamilies. According to the report, India accounts for approximately 8.8% of the global biodiversity of this group, with 2,205 species belonging to the superfamily Geometroidea alone.
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has prepared the first-ever comprehensive national catalogue of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) found in India. This scientific achievement, announced on July 30, 2026, documents 13,703 species. It took ZSI scientists 12 years to complete this project. The list is considered a significant milestone in the scientific documentation and conservation of India's biodiversity.
What is the ZSI Lepidoptera Catalogue?
It is a comprehensive taxonomic catalogue of all known butterflies and moths found in India. It was prepared under the leadership of ZSI scientists Dr. Navneet Singh and Dr. Rahul Joshi. The work involved field surveys, the study of museum specimens, literature reviews, and taxonomic research. It will serve as a standard reference for future research, species identification, and biodiversity management.
Key Features of the Catalogue
This national catalogue classifies 13,703 Lepidoptera species found in India into 102 families, 240 subfamilies, 3,705 genera, and 31 superfamilies. It further strengthens India's standing among the world's 'megadiverse' nations in terms of scientific documentation of biodiversity. Additionally, it resolves long-standing taxonomic questions.
Significance of Geometroidea in India
According to the report, India has emerged as a significant hub for the global diversity of Geometroidea moths. A total of 2,205 species belonging to this group have been recorded in India, representing approximately 8.8% of the known Geometroidea species worldwide. This fact highlights India's rich insect biodiversity and its potential for scientific research.
Significance for the UPSC Examination
Butterflies and moths play a crucial role in pollination and the food chain, and serve as bio-indicators of ecosystem health. Questions related to the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), biodiversity, taxonomy, Lepidoptera, and bio-indicators may be asked in the UPSC Preliminary Examination. For the Main Examination, questions concerning biodiversity conservation, climate change, ecosystem management, and the role of scientific institutions are significant.
