Contribution to the knowledge of butterfly fauna (Lepidotera) in the canyons of Sutjeska and Hrčavka rivers

Abstract

This paper includes the partial survey of butterfly fauna in the nearby zone intended for the construction of mini hydropower plants. In a short period of time, in one part of a season, at a uniform type of habitat, 68 butterfly and 48 moth species were recorded, which indicates a remarkable biological potential. Seven diurnal and 47 nocturnal species have been recorded for the first time in the Sutjeska National Park, while the existence of two Apatura species was confirmed after more than a hundred years. Some of the species are listed on the Red List of the Republic of Srpska, as well as on Annexes II and IV of EU Habitats directive. Butterflies are very sensitive group of organisms to any changes in habitats, so we think they would be a good bioindicators of negative impact of the construction process.