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SUT Conducts Biodiversity Survey at Lam Chae Dam, Discovers Over 15 Butterfly Species Indicating Thap Lan Forest's Rich Ecosystem

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SUT Conducts Biodiversity Survey at Lam Chae Dam, Discovers Over 15 Butterfly Species Indicating Thap Lan Forest's Rich Ecosystem
 
Nakhon Ratchasima – Academics from Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) have partnered with the Ban Map Krad community to survey the ecosystem surrounding the Lam Chae Dam in Khon Buri District. The survey revealed a diverse array of insects and over 15 butterfly species, reflecting the pristine condition of the watershed forest within Thap Lan National Park. Boasting high potential and rich biodiversity, the area is being proposed for development into a sustainable ecological learning and conservation tourism center.
 
Today (March 19, 2026), Assistant Professor Dr. Jariya Roddee, a lecturer at the School of Crop Production Technology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), along with a team of graduate students, the SUT Public Relations Division, and local community leaders, conducted a field survey of insects and butterflies at Kaeng Wang Won, Lam Chae Dam, located in Ban Map Krad, Khok Krachai Subdistrict, Khon Buri District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.
 
 
 
 
Speaking about the expedition, Asst. Prof. Dr. Jariya stated, "The survey team studied the biodiversity along the nature trail, starting from the entrance—which requires a boat ride through the Thap Lan mountain pass—to the Kaeng Wang Won survey area. Initial observations along the route revealed various bird species. Upon entering the inner forest and the areas around the different tiers of the waterfall, we discovered a fascinatingly diverse ecosystem. In the highly humid inner forest near the waterfall, we found large populations of insects, particularly a notably dense population of butterflies.
 
 
 
"From our preliminary survey and classification, we were able to photograph approximately 15 species and have already identified around 25 butterfly species overall. The butterflies and insects recorded during this expedition belong to the families Nymphalidae, Pieridae, Papilionidae, and Lycaenidae. These represent only initial figures from a limited timeframe; the actual species diversity is likely much higher. However, due to time constraints and the specific foraging habits of certain insects that may not have appeared during our survey, we could not record every species present in the area.
 
"Discovering such a high volume and variety of butterfly species is a vital indicator of the forest's exceptional fertility. This is supported by the presence of large perennial trees, such as the Crateva tree (Ton Kum), which serves as a primary host plant for caterpillars. Additionally, the survey team anticipates that this coming April will be another ideal time for nature viewing. It will coincide with the peak maturity of the Lemon Emigrant butterflies (Catopsilia pomona), which will have finished feeding and emerged from their chrysalises. We expect a vast number of them to take flight, adding vibrant colors to the forest and waterfall."
 
 
 
This area holds significant potential to serve as a hub for education and research, as well as a diverse ecological learning site encompassing various flora, fauna, insects, and fungi. Furthermore, it can be promoted as a conservation-based learning destination, allowing tourists and nature enthusiasts to experience its beauty while fostering an awareness of the importance of conserving forests and water resources, thereby ensuring the sustainable preservation of its biodiversity.
 
 
 
 
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Division of Public Relations, 
Suranaree University of Technology
March 19, 2026
 


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