In a study published in 2017, researchers conducted an extensive butterfly inventory in the Ta Phin mountain area of northern Vietnam. They recorded over 26,000 butterflies from 231 species. The species richness curves reached saturation, indicating that most species present in the area were detected.
Such studies are crucial because butterflies are sensitive indicators of environmental change, habitat degradation, and land use intensity. By understanding butterfly diversity and seasonal patterns, conservationists can better monitor ecosystem health and prioritize conservation efforts in regions like northern Vietnam, where biodiversity is under increasing threat from human activities and climate change. This data helps inform strategies to protect both the butterflies and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Udaspes folus (Hesperiidae)
Franzén, M., Schrader, J. & Sjöberg, G. Butterfly diversity and seasonality of Ta Phin mountain area (N. Vietnam, Lao Cai province). J Insect Conserv 21, 465–475 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10841-017-9985-z
