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THE UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA
MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND TOURISM

TANZANIA WILDLIFE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Wildlife Research for Conservation

Latest News & Updates

TANZANIAN SCIENTIST DR. DEVOLENT MTUI EXPANDS GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY WITH DISCOVERY OF NEW BUTTERFLY SPECIES

As the world prepares to mark International Women’s Day on March 8, 2026, Tanzania proudly recognizes the remarkable achievement of wildlife scientist Dr. Devolent Mtui, whose groundbreaking research has enriched global biodiversity records.

Dr. Mtui, a researcher at the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, made history in 2017 with the discovery of a new butterfly species, Charaxes mtuiae, in the forests of Kihansi Gorge.

The discovery followed extensive field research in which Dr. Mtui collected and analyzed approximately 200 butterfly species, leading to the identification of a previously undocumented species.

The finding represents a significant milestone in wildlife and environmental science. Butterflies are globally recognized as important bioindicators, reflecting the health and stability of ecosystems. The addition of Charaxes mtuiae to scientific records strengthens understanding of biodiversity within Tanzania’s unique ecological landscapes.

Dr. Mtui’s achievement highlights the critical role of women in science, conservation, and research, reinforcing Tanzania’s contribution to global environmental knowledge and sustainable development.

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TANAPA
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WWF
FZS
NCAA
TAWA
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MWEKA
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