A brand-new pictorial brochure documenting 125 butterfly species native to Assam's Garbhanga Reserve Forest made its official debut on Thursday, shedding light on the region's remarkable insect biodiversity and ecological significance as a prime conservation hotspot.
Jointly brought out by Aaranyak and the Kamrup East Forest Division, the publication was unveiled at Lokhora Kona within the Garbhanga Reserve Forest by Assam Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah. The launch ceremony also witnessed the presence of Guwahati Mayor Mrigen Sarania alongside senior officials from the Assam Forest Department and various other dignitaries.
A Comprehensive Guide for Researchers and Nature Enthusiasts
Compiled using records gathered from the Garbhanga Reserve Forest in recent years, the brochure highlights 125 distinct butterfly species. It is designed to serve as an accessible pictorial reference tool for students, academic researchers, conservationists, visitors, and wildlife enthusiasts exploring the forest landscape.
According to the issuing organisations, the initiative intends to foster a deeper appreciation and widespread awareness regarding the rich butterfly fauna residing in Garbhanga, thereby encouraging informed public engagement with local natural heritage. Positioned along the southern boundary of Guwahati, the reserve forest stands out as a flourishing ecological landscape.
Broader Ecological Value and Expert Compilation Team
Scientific surveys have recorded more than 270 butterfly species in the area to date, reinforcing its status as a vital habitat supporting high species diversity and wider environmental values. The publication was carefully structured by an Aaranyak team consisting of Nayanjyoti Moran, Dr. Pranjal Kr. Das, Rumana Maheen, and Udayan Borthakur. Organizers hope that documenting and sharing such ecological data will bolster public understanding of the forest's importance and actively support ongoing conservation efforts.
