Itanagar: In a remarkable scientific achievement highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s rich biodiversity, a new butterfly species has been discovered in the state and named Euthalia (Limbusa) zubeengargi in honour of the late Assamese music icon Zubeen Garg.
The discovery was made by butterfly enthusiast and policeman Roshan Upadhaya along with researcher Kalesh Sadasivan during field surveys in the Basar region of Leparada district. The rare butterfly was spotted in semi-evergreen forests at elevations between 600–700 metres, typically in shaded understories.
Only two individuals of this elusive species have been recorded so far despite extensive surveys, indicating it may be naturally rare or highly localised in dense forest habitats. The butterfly is known for its slow movement through foliage, feeding primarily on tree sap and drawing minerals from moist surfaces. It features olive-brown wings with white markings and a faint iridescent sheen. Detailed morphological studies, especially of male specimens, confirmed it as a distinct new species within the Euthalia genus.
Researchers have proposed the common name “Basar Duke”, linking it to its place of discovery in Basar.
The naming pays tribute to Zubeen Garg’s immense contributions to music, culture, and the identity of Assam and the broader Northeast region. Garg, one of the most influential voices in Northeast India, passed away in Singapore on September 19 last year. This is the second recent scientific honour for the artist, following a newly discovered plant species also named after him.
Experts believe such namings not only celebrate cultural icons but also help spotlight the extraordinary biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas and the urgent need for its conservation. Arunachal Pradesh, known as a global biodiversity hotspot, continues to reveal new species, underscoring its ecological significance.
The discovery has been welcomed as both a scientific milestone and a heartfelt cultural tribute, drawing attention to the need to protect fragile forest ecosystems in the region.
Tags: New Butterfly Species Arunachal, Euthalia zubeengargi, Zubeen Garg, Basar Duke Butterfly, Leparada District, Roshan Upadhaya, Kalesh Sadasivan, Arunachal Biodiversity, Eastern Himalaya Butterflies, Northeast India Discovery
Hashtags: #ZubeenGarg #NewButterflySpecies #ArunachalPradesh #BasarDuke #EuthaliaZubeengargi #NortheastBiodiversity #ButterflyDiscovery #ArunachalWildlife #EasternHimalayas #NortheastIndia
