A team of 30 scientists from around the world has been studying a butterfly sub-tribe called the Euptychiina for many years. After examining 400 different species, the researchers came across some new species.
One of the newly discovered genera was given the familiar name “Saurona”. This name comes from the villain Sauron, whose name we often hear in JRR Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. The reason is that the black circles on the wings of the butterfly resemble Sauron’s eyes.
It is hoped that the name Saurona will increase interest in the species
Two species of butterflies have already been added to the Saurona genus, the researchers say. These creatures, which are the first members of the group, are called Saurona triangular and Saurona aurigera. Experts add that they believe that many more species will join this group in the future.
Scientists think that giving the genus this name will increase interest in the species and lead to more research. Your name is Dr., who is part of the team. Let’s add that he was chosen by Blanca Heurtas. “Giving these butterflies an unusual name helps draw attention to the under-recognized group,” Heurtas says. It also shows that even among a group of species that look very similar, we can find beauty in the mundane.”
The team also found another butterfly species. Heurtas named this genus “Argenteria”. This name, which means silver mine, was chosen because of the silver parts on the wings of the species. The research findings revealing the new species are published in Systematic Entomology.
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