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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Butterflies and their floral partners: Diversity, foraging behaviour and potential pollination services for sustainable agriculture in Birbhum, West Bengal
Authors
Hemanta Saha, Mousumi Bandyopadhyay, Anirban Paul
Abstract
Butterflies are important components of
terrestrial ecosystems and may contribute substantially to pollination and
plant reproductive success. The present study investigated butterfly–flower
associations and potential pollination interactions in Birbhum district, West
Bengal, India, during 2024 - 2026. Field observations were conducted across
Santiniketan, Sriniketan, Ballavpur and Ganpur, covering cultivated crops, wild
herbs, shrubs, ornamental plants and trees. Flower-visiting butterflies were
documented through direct observations and photographic records, with emphasis
on floral resources, feeding behaviour and interactions with reproductive
structures. A diverse assemblage of lepidopteran visitors was recorded from
several plant families. Butterflies showed frequent associations with tubular
flowers, suggesting a relationship between floral corolla dimensions and
butterfly proboscis length that may facilitate effective nectar foraging and
pollen transfer. Repeated contact with anthers and stigmas indicated potential
pollination services and a reciprocal relationship between butterflies and
flowering plants. These interactions highlight the ecological importance of
maintaining floral diversity and butterfly-friendly habitats. The findings also
provide baseline information for the development and maintenance of butterfly
parks and gardens. However, quantitative studies of pollen loads, stigma pollen
deposition, fruit set and seed production are needed to confirm pollination efficiency.`
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Pages:589-595
How to cite this article:
Hemanta Saha, Mousumi Bandyopadhyay, Anirban Paul "Butterflies and their floral partners: Diversity, foraging behaviour and potential pollination services for sustainable agriculture in Birbhum, West Bengal". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 589-595
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