New Butterfly Species from Maluku, Indonesia
Author Information
Author(s): Alan Cassidy, Andrew Rawlins
Hypothesis
The male specimen of Hypolycaena asahi is also Hypolycaena asahi due to its markings and its association with females from Seram.
Conclusion
Hypolycaena asahi is confirmed to exist in Seram and Ambon, and Hypolycaena periphorbas is not found in Maluku.
Supporting Evidence
- Hypolycaena asahi was previously only known from a single female specimen.
- The male of Hypolycaena asahi is described for the first time in this study.
- New locality records for Hypolycaena species in Maluku were provided.
- The study clarifies the taxonomy of Hypolycaena phorbas and its allies.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new male butterfly species in Indonesia and confirmed it lives in two places. They also discovered another butterfly thought to be there isn't actually found in that area.
Methodology
The study involved examining preserved specimens and using micro-photography for genitalia analysis.
Limitations
The study is limited by the low number of specimens available, particularly for Hypolycaena erylus in South and Southeast Maluku.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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