Butterfly diversity and faunal analysis in Dinghushan National Nature Reserve

Dinghushan National Nature Reserve is a typical representative of the subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest of South Asian, and its butterfly diversity and faunal composition are essential for regional ecological assessment.

This study systematically conducted surveys of butterfly species and faunal analysis in Dinghushan National Nature Reserve using field transect surveys with a comprehensive literature review.

As of October 2023, results indicated that a total of 269 butterfly species (representing 150 genera across 5 families) were documented, with 29 species newly recorded species for the reserve, including two national second-class protected species—Troides helena and T. aeacus. Nymphalidae exhibited the highest species richness (110 species; Shannon index = 2.25 ± 0.07), followed by Lycaenidae (57 species; Shannon index = 1.90 ± 0.09). The Pielou's evenness index ranged from 0.71 to 0.84, signifying distinct niche differentiation among families. Faunal analysis revealed that the butterfly community was dominated by Oriental realm components in the global zoogeographical context, with transitional traits of the Palearctic and Australasian realms. In China's zoogeographical divisions, the fauna was predominantly composed of elements from the South China, Central China, and Southwest China regions.

This study demonstrates the complexity and transitional character of the butterfly fauna in Dinghushan National Nature Reserve, traits strongly shaped by its geographic setting, topographic heterogeneity, and climatic variability. These findings offer a robust scientific foundation for evidence-based biodiversity conservation and long-term monitoring initiatives within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, highlighting the reserve's pivotal role in sustaining regional ecological integrity.