Andaman Club Tail (Female)

A Rare Endemic Beauty

The Andaman Club Tail (Female) is a remarkable endemic butterfly of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, thriving in the humid tropical rainforests of this ecologically rich region. The long isolation of these islands has given rise to several unique butterfly species, and the Andaman Club Tail stands out as one of the most distinctive among them.

The commemorative postage stamp featuring the female of this species highlights both its delicate beauty and the urgent need for conservation.

Physical Characteristics

The female Andaman Club Tail has a wingspan of approximately 140 mm, slightly larger than the male. While sharing the striking black and crimson colouration characteristic of the species, the female is especially notable for its mimicry.

• Upper Side: Predominantly black with crimson red hind wings.
• Markings: The hind wings are dusted with black scales, and the discal markings are more extensive.
• Mimicry: The female closely resembles the female Andaman Mormon, an adaptation that may provide protection from predators.

Its graceful flight and vibrant coloration make it a captivating sight along forest paths.

Habitat and Behaviour

The female Andaman Club Tail inhabits forested regions across the Andaman Islands. It is often seen flying slowly, sometimes alongside the female Andaman Mormon, reflecting their close resemblance.

Like the male, the female depends on specific host plants, particularly Thottea tomentosa, for the development of its larvae. This close ecological relationship underscores the species’ vulnerability to habitat changes.

Conservation Concerns

Once common in parts of South Andamans, this endemic species is now rarely sighted. The decline in sightings emphasizes the importance of habitat preservation and environmental awareness.

Several butterflies of the islands receive protection under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and conservation attention is also guided by global assessments of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Protecting endemic species like the Andaman Club Tail is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the islands.

Philatelic Significance

By issuing a commemorative postage stamp depicting the Andaman Club Tail (Female), the Department of Posts celebrates the extraordinary biodiversity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The stamp serves as both a tribute to this rare butterfly and a reminder of the collective responsibility to conserve fragile island ecosystems for generations to come.