Scientific name of Tamil Nadu’s State Butterfly

What is the scientific name of Tamil Nadu’s State Butterfly?

  1. A) Papilio demoleus
  2. B) Cirrochroa thais
  3. C) Danaus chrysippus
  4. D) Tirumala limniace

EXPLANATION

  • In 2018, the Government of Tamil Nadu declared Cirrochroa thais as the state butterfly.

  • Purpose:

    • To promote awareness of biodiversity

    • To highlight the ecological importance of butterflies in pollination and ecosystem balance

    • To encourage conservation of butterflies and their habitats

2. Scientific Details of Cirrochroa thais

Attribute Details
Common Name Tamil Yeoman
Scientific Name Cirrochroa thais
Family Nymphalidae (Brush-footed butterflies)
Distribution Southern India, especially Tamil Nadu, and parts of Southeast Asia
Habitat Forests, scrublands, gardens, and areas rich in host plants
Appearance Medium-sized butterfly with bright orange wings and black-bordered patterns on the forewings.
Behavior Fast, graceful flyer; often seen fluttering around flowers and shrubs.

3. Ecological Importance

  • Butterflies like Cirrochroa thais are pollinators, helping in reproduction of flowering plants.

  • They serve as bioindicators, meaning their presence indicates a healthy environment.

  • Protecting state butterflies helps preserve ecosystems and maintain biodiversity.

4. Clarification on Other Options

  • A) Papilio demoleus – Lime Butterfly; widespread, not specific to Tamil Nadu.

  • C) Danaus chrysippus – Plain Tiger; common milkweed butterfly, not state butterfly.

  • D) Tirumala limniace – Blue Tiger; migratory, not specific to Tamil Nadu.

✅ Conclusion

  • The state butterfly of Tamil Nadu is Cirrochroa thais (Tamil Yeoman).

  • It was chosen to symbolize the rich natural heritage of the state and promote butterfly conservation.

Scientific name of Tamil Nadu’s State Butterfly