Pune: Rare Blue Mormon Butterfly Spotted at Nplants Nursery in Viman Nagar
Viman Nagar, 10th October 2024: In a remarkable encounter, the Blue Mormon butterfly (Papilio polymnestor), a species typically found in heavy rainfall areas and evergreen forests, has been regularly spotted at Nplants Nursery Landscape Services in Viman Nagar, Pune. This butterfly, which is Maharashtra’s state butterfly and the second-largest species in India, has found a welcoming habitat in the nursery, particularly around its Ziziphus (bor) plants—a known host plant for the Blue Mormon caterpillar. Though mostly found in South India and Sri Lanka, it has made an unexpected appearance here. With a wingspan of 120 to 150 mm, the Blue Mormon is a sight to behold.
The nursery, owned by Priyanka and Nilesh, both of whom hold master’s degrees in biodiversity, has become a haven for various butterfly species throughout the year. “We’ve seen butterflies lay their eggs on bel plants, curry leaf plants, and lemon plants. We consciously avoid using any insecticides to ensure that caterpillars can grow, transform, and eventually become beautiful butterflies. We have also observed many different butterflies visiting flowers for nectar collection, along with honey bees, adding to the urban biodiversity,” Nilesh shared.
Priyanka highlighted the significance of their organic approach. “We strongly believe in promoting a good ecosystem in urban areas. Our nursery follows organic principles, and we avoid harmful pesticides or polyhouse covers. This ensures a healthy environment not just for plants but for all life forms that depend on them,” she explained.
The couple also takes pride in educating their customers. “We always guide our customers not to kill any butterfly caterpillars in their home gardens. They aren’t harmful, and they are an important part of our ecosystem. Having butterflies, birds, and insects in your garden is a sign of a happy and healthy garden,” Nilesh added.
The nursery has captured several videos and photographs of the Blue Mormon during its visits, sparking excitement among nature enthusiasts and conservationists. Their observations reveal a vibrant ecosystem where butterflies thrive across different seasons, underscoring the role such green spaces play in fostering biodiversity even in the heart of a bustling city.
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Nplants Nursery continues to set an example for sustainable practices, promoting an environment where butterflies can complete their life cycle, free from harmful chemicals. Priyanka and Nilesh hope their efforts inspire others to contribute to the conservation of Pune’s urban biodiversity.
