Protecting Butterflies, Vital to the Ecosystem
Nature Exploration
Nature-based tourism has seen a surge in popularity, especially in the past 2-3 years, with people increasingly drawn to nature and environmental conservation. Among the many attractions, butterfly watching stands out as a favorite activity for eco-tourists, offering glimpses of breathtaking beauty in various natural reserves.
However, over the last 1-2 years, butterfly sightings have declined significantly, largely due to changing weather patterns. This shift poses a challenge: how can we continue to enjoy butterfly tourism without harming these essential creatures?
Recognizing the importance of butterflies to the ecosystem, the Thailand Environmental Institute (TEI) has shed light on this issue. Through informative articles, researchers like Nattanicha Yilangka aim to raise awareness and encourage sustainable practices to ensure the enduring beauty of butterflies.
Butterflies, classified under Lepidoptera, are distinguished by their scaly wings, delicate bodies, and diverse species. With over 200,000 species globally, they play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity. They are indicators of ecosystem health and serve as pollinators, aiding in the reproduction of plants, including those consumed by humans and animals.
However, butterflies face threats due to climate change and habitat loss. Their survival depends on the availability of specific host plants for egg-laying and larval development. When these plants disappear, so do the butterflies that rely on them.
In Thailand, butterfly diversity is showcased in various national parks, with Kaeng Krachan National Park being a notable hotspot, boasting over 250 species. Yet, their dwindling numbers demand attention and action from both tourists and conservationists.
To preserve butterfly habitats and promote responsible tourism, visitors are urged to adhere to guidelines such as refraining from touching or disturbing butterflies, avoiding littering, and respecting park regulations. By adopting eco-friendly practices, we can ensure that future generations continue to marvel at the beauty of butterflies in their natural habitats.
Sources:
(1) Biodiversity Research Center Celebrating the 72nd Birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Yala Rajabhat University
(2) Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Conservation
(3) Article: Response of some pansy butterflies (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Junonia) to higher temperature conditions.
(4) Article: “April winter” causes large fields of butterflies to die everywhere. Unable to adapt to changing weather conditions
(5) Article: Global warming because of our hands: Butterflies are on the verge of extinction.
