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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
A taxonomic survey of moths (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) across selected sites in Srivaikundam, Southern India
Authors
Poolpandi K, Dr. P Rosalind Daisy Rani, Dr. G Chelladurai
Abstract
Moths (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) are
ecologically significant nocturnal insects, functioning as herbivores,
pollinators, prey, and bioindicators of environmental change. Despite their
importance, moth diversity remains understudied in many tropical agroecosystems
of southern India. This study presents a taxonomic survey of moths across three
ecologically distinct sites—Perur, Patemanagaram, and Aniyaparanallur—in the
Srivaikundam region of Tamil Nadu over a one-year period (January–December
2024). A total of 186 species belonging to 112 genera and 14 families were
recorded. Species richness and diversity varied among sites, with Perur
exhibiting the highest richness (142 species; Shannon–Wiener H′ = 4.12) and
evenness (J′ = 0.88), followed by Patemanagaram (118 species; H′ = 3.78) and
Aniyaparanallur (96 species; H′ = 3.41). The moth community was dominated by
Noctuidae (24.7%), Erebidae (21.0%), and Geometridae (16.7%), reflecting their
broad ecological adaptability. Seasonal analyses indicated peak species
richness during the post-monsoon period, correlating with increased vegetation
growth and resource availability. Vegetation complexity positively influenced
species richness (r = 0.82, p < 0.01), whereas anthropogenic disturbance (r
= −0.69, p < 0.05) and artificial light (r = −0.76, p < 0.01) had
negative impacts. The study underscores the utility of moths as bioindicators
for monitoring habitat quality and provides baseline taxonomic data for
conservation planning in tropical agroecosystems. These findings highlight the
need for habitat management strategies that preserve structural heterogeneity
to support both generalist and specialist moth species in the Srivaikundam
region.
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Pages:1-5
How to cite this article:
Poolpandi K, Dr. P Rosalind Daisy Rani, Dr. G Chelladurai "A taxonomic survey of moths (<i>Lepidoptera: Heterocera</i>) across selected sites in Srivaikundam, Southern India". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 1-5
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