A Study on Butterfly Diversity in Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea
International Journal of Computer Science (IJCS) Published by SK Research Group of Companies (SKRGC)
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Abstract
This study investigates butterfly diversity across three distinct habitats—Adventure Park, IBS University campus, and Pacific Adventist University—over a four-month period from April to July 2019. Field surveys were conducted three times weekly using random walk-through observations and photographic documentation for species identification. Diversity was quantified using the Simpson Index of Diversity, revealing the highest diversity at Pacific Adventist University (0.47), followed by IBS University (0.42) and Adventure Park (0.38). A total of 233 butterflies were recorded, with the Nymphalidae family emerging as the most dominant across all sites. Species were categorized by abundance: four were abundant, two common, eight less common, and seven occasional. Habitat complexity— including gardens, orchards, and agroforestry—was found to influence species richness. The findings align with previous studies and underscore the ecological importance of butterfly diversity in the region. The study advocates for further research and conservation efforts, including the development of butterfly parks.
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Keywords
Diversity, Butterfly, IBS University, Conservation
