01 Eyl 2025 Pazartesi
Notes on the dry season form of Parnassius hardwickii hardwickii Gray from Nepal
Abstract : Parnassius hardwickii is a common species among its generic group that occurs in some Asian countries like, India, Pakistan, some parts of China including Nepal Himalaya within the elevation of 2870 m to 4545 m. This butterfly has an uneven distribution pattern showing distribution gaps in some of its potential areas. This species is represented by a single subspecies, P. hardwickeii hardwickii in Nepal. Normally, Parnassius butterflies have a single brood annually and appear for a short period in summer from July to September before initiation of the cold season. It is an interesting fact that the P. h. hardwickii is the only Apollo species that appears year-round in Nepal Himalayas, except the month of February. This species has broods of both the dry and wet seasons, which distinguishes it from other Apollo species. This paper is based on comprehensive field research carried out over various periods, and consultations of secondary sources.