Butterfly diversity and habitat associations in a Montane ecosystem: A Case study of Mt. Ibot, Philippines

Butterflies help plants reproduce, and their caterpillars break down a lot of plant material into waste, which goes back into the ecosystem in different ways. This study aimed to identify butterfly species diversity, local and national distribution, endemism, conservation status, habitat association, and spatial distribution. Transect walks, sweep netting, and bait trapping were utilized during the collection of samples from June 21 to 26, 2024; July 23 to 28, 2024; and August 23 to 28, 2024. A total of 653 individual butterflies were recorded, representing 47 species and three identified at the genus level, across five families: Nymphalidae, Pieridae, Papilionidae, Lycaenidae, and Hesperiidae. Nymphalidae has the most abundant species (52 %). Site 2, the riparian area, exhibited the highest species recorded (N=46 spp), with a diversity index value of H' = 3.694 and species evenness of E=0.873 . Site 1, agroforest, had 45 species (H’=3.543, E=768) with 294 individuals of butterflies. Site 3, the ecotourism area, recorded the fewest species, with only 44 (H'=3.598). Of the 47 identified species, 10 are endemic to the Philippines, while 5 are endemic to Mindanao. Discophora sondaica semperi stands out as a very rare species, both locally and nationally. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, canopy cover, and elevation have significantly influenced butterfly distribution. The observed floral associations suggest that the 21 plant families, especially Poaceae, Fabaceae, Moraceae, and Araceae, are potential butterfly host plants. The local distribution map was made to highlight butterflies’ habitat-specific characteristics that signify Mt. Ibot’s ecological value and the need for continuous monitoring for conservation efforts.