A New Chance: Recovery of Nymphalidae diversity twelve years after mining in a peri-urban Andean Forest of Colombia (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea)

Various human activities, including mining, have significantly impacted ecosystems in Colombia, leading to a decline in biodiversity. These activities have led to changes in the distribution and diversity of different species, such as Lepidoptera. A study was conducted to analyze the changes in the diversity of Papilionoidea in a peri-urban forest located in Bogotá, twelve years after the cessation of mining activities in the area. Seven study stations were established, and standardized sampling techniques were employed to collect Papilionoidea. The results showed an increase in Nymphalidae diversity compared to studies conducted in the early years after the end of mining in the area. The most common Nymphalidae belonged to the Pronophilina subtribe. This research demonstrates the success of ecological restoration projects implemented in the area after the cessation of mining activities, which allowed for the recolonization of the region by various species, indicating the regeneration of the Andean Mountain Forest. Further studies focused on ecological restoration in the area are recommended, as positive effects on the assemblage of Andean Lepidoptera fauna have been observed.