Koli, Vijay Kumar , Kumar, Rakesh , Koli, Hemlata
2025-10-01 COMMUNITY ECOLOGY 2025 26(卷), 3(期), (603-620页)
This study investigates the patterns of butterfly diversity, abundance, and community structure in relation to seasonal variation and environmental variables in the tropical dry deciduous forests of the southern Aravalli hills, Rajasthan, India. Field data were collected over one year (July 2023-June 2024) using 30 randomly placed 10 x 10 m plots along an elevation gradient in and around Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary. A total of 45 butterfly species from four families were recorded, with Lycaenidae being the most species-rich. Diversity peaked during the monsoon, with significantly lower values in summer. Generalized Linear Mixed Models revealed that season was the strongest predictor of both species richness and abundance, while elevation and grass cover had minor additional effects. Species richness and abundance were significantly higher in the monsoon than in winter and summer. Community composition also varied seasonally, driven mainly by species turnover rather than nestedness. Eight species were identified as seasonal indicators, including Belenois aurota (summer) and Eurema hecabe (monsoon). Our findings highlight that butterfly diversity is predominantly shaped by seasonality rather than topographic or vegetative variables in this semi-arid landscape. These results underscore the importance of seasonal-driven resource availability for butterfly conservation. We recommend habitat management strategies that promote grassland regeneration and seasonal monitoring to inform long-term conservation planning in tropical dry forest landscapes.