First Record of Neptis sappho Pallas, 1771 and Tanaecia lepidea (Butler, 1868) Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Limenitidinae) from Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) are widely recognized as sensitive bioindicators of habitat quality and ecological stability. The family Nymphalidae represents one of the most diverse and ecologically significant butterfly families in the Indian subcontinent. The present study reports the first confirmed record of Neptis sappho Pallas, 1771 (Common Glider/Pallas’s Sailer) and Tanaecia lepidea (Butler, 1868) (Grey Count) from Madhya Pradesh, Central India. Field observations were conducted in the Bargi Dam catchment area, Jabalpur Division, during the period 2024-2025. Neptis sappho was recorded on 10 January 2024, while Tanaecia lepidea was observed on 02 March 2025. Species identification was confirmed based on external morphological features, wing pattern characteristics, and standard taxonomic literature. The present records extend the known geographical distribution of these species into Central India and underscore the ecological significance of riparian and semi-forest habitats within the Narmada River basin. These findings provide valuable baseline data for future biodiversity assessments, monitoring programmes, and conservation planning in the region.