By Sudipa Das, Nandhini D. and P. R. Shashank
India’s Lepidoptera fauna is remarkably diverse, with moths comprising a significant portion of this richness. Globally, an estimated 1,50,000 to 1,80,000 moth species exist, of which approximately 12,000 have been documented in India. This accounts for about 6–8% of all known moth species. Despite these substantial figures, a large proportion of moth species remains unidentified and undescribed, highlighting the immense potential for discovery and research within this fascinating order.
One prominent figure contributing to the study and conservation of Lepidoptera in India is Mr. Sanjay Sondhi, a Dehradun-based naturalist. Although an engineer by qualification, Mr. Sondhi shifted to full-time nature conservation in 2008. He is the Founder Trustee of Titli Trust, a non-profit organization dedicated to biodiversity conservation and community-based ecotourism. His work primarily focuses on Lepidoptera, avifauna and herpetofauna, though his interests span a broad spectrum of wildlife. He has authored numerous publications, including field guides and research papers, contributing significantly to the documentation and understanding of India’s natural heritage.
“Moths of India: A Field Guide” by Mr. Sanjay Sondhi is a significant contribution to the study and appreciation of India’s rich Lepidopteran diversity. There are very few affordable fields guide books on moths in India, for the beginners and naturalists. This book addresses that gap by covering around 1,500 moth species from North Western Himalayas, Eastern Himalayas, Northeast India, and Western Ghats, making it an invaluable resource for enthusiasts and researchers alike. Spanning 280 pages, it covers close to 1,500 macro moths, and a handful of micro moths.
This guide offers several major moth families including Bombycidae (9 species) & Endromidae (3 species); Eupterotidae (Monkey Moths, 12 species); Saturniidae (Emperor & Silk Moths, 29 species); Brahmaeidae (Brahmid Moths, 2 species); Sphingidae (Hawkmoths, 120 species); Callidulidae (Callidulids, 4 species); Cossidae (Leopard and Goat Moths, 8 species); Drepanidae (Hooktip and False Owlet Moths, 57 species); Epicopeiidae (3 species); Geometridae (Geometer Moths, 373 species); Uraniidae (Swallowtail Moths, 24 species); Lasiocampidae (Lappet, Eggar and Snout Moths, 33 species); Erebidae (398 species); Noctuidae (84 species); Euteliidae (Euteliids,12 species); Nolidae (Tufted Moths, 45 species); Notodontidae (Prominent Moths, 47 species); Zygaenidae (Burnet & Forester Moths, 32 species); Phaudidae (2 species); Limacodidae (Slug Moths, 35 species); Crambidae (Grass Moths, 107 species); Pyralidae (Snout Moths, 12 species); and Thyrididae (Window-Winged Leaf Moths, 11 species). Additionally, it includes representatives from nine other families, such as Hyblaeidae, Sesiidae, Psychidae, Tortricidae, Gracillariidae, Pterophoridae, Depressariidae, Attevidae and Adelidae offering a broad perspective on the diversity of moth species across various families.
Short notes on each moth family are included. Each species entry features, a cropped image of a live moth, showcasing its natural posture as observed in the field to aid identification. The process is primarily based on external morphology, with species requiring genitalia dissection noted as closely related to known species. Images of caterpillars of some of the commonly occurring moths are included for references. The established and widely accepted common names and scientific names are provided along with its wingspan, sex, and distribution within the Indian subcontinent. The classification and naming adhere to the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) standards. Additionally, details about similar species or the number of species within a genus are included. For certain species, helpful tips for identification are also provided.
In addition to species description, this guide offers practical advice for the beginners interested in moth watching and photography. It covers the best seasons and methods for observing moths, necessary equipment and ethical guidelines to ensure responsible and sustainable practices in the field. For those interested in exploring the nocturnal world of moths in India, “Moths of India: A Field Guide” serves as an essential companion, bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and public engagement in nature conservation.
This guide is available for purchase through various platforms, including Amazon India.
We wish all the readers of Indian Entomologists a very happy new year and happy mothing.
Sudipa Das is a Ph.D. Scholar at the Division of Entomology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. She is working on Taxonomy of tortricid moths.
Email: sudipadas199930@gmail.com
Nandhini D is a Ph.D. Scholar at the Division of Entomology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. She is working on Taxonomy of family Gelechiidae (Lepidoptera).
Email: nandhudharuman8897@gmail.com
Shashank P. R., is a Senior Scientist (Entomology) at the Division of Entomology, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. His field of specialization is insect taxonomy and invasive pests. He is the Founding Managing Editor of Indian Entomologist.
Email: spathour@gmail.com
Disclaimer: The contents, style, language, plagiarism, references, mention of any products if any, etc., are the sole responsibility of the authors.