Butterflies are used as indicators of biodiversity and ecological stability in tropical forests. Easily seen and collected, butterflies can be incorporated into various environmental technologies. In order to assess the butterfly fauna in Caxiuanã, a survey of the species was conducted at the Ferreira Penna Scientific Station in the Caxiuanã National Forest, through field collections and the review of the Entomological Collection of the Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi. Over the past 10 years, more than 30 collectors have used various methods to capture specimens, usually with entomological nets, but also with baits, such as fermenting fruit. In 2003 monthly systematic collections of butterflies began in six 1 km plots with 96 traps baited with fermented bananas. The butterflies were identified to species level based on specialized literature, in comparison with specimens from the Museum's collection, and with the help of specialists. Then they were photographed in ventral and dorsal position and photos were taken of males and females of species with sexual dimorphism. The data are being computerized for consultation and future research. A total of 162 butterfly species were identified, distributed among the families Pieridae, Papilionidae, and Nymphalidae. In the programmed collections of the TEAM-Caxiuanã project, most butterflies belong to the Nymphalidae family (1910 individuals representing at least 90 species in 27 genera). The most frequent species recorded was Tigridia acesta (351 individuals, 344 males and 7 females). The butterfly fauna of Caxiuanã includes rare or endangered species in Pará, such as Agrias, Prepona, Arcbaeoprepona, Morpbo, Diaetbria, Nessaea, Catonepbele and Memphis, among others. It is anticipated that the ECFPn will be a reference center in studies of the butterfly fauna in the Eastern Amazon.
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