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Arawacus aethesa

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Arawacus aethesa faces severe population decline primarily due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its limited range in South American cloud forests. Mining activities and agricultural expansion have eliminated critical breeding sites, while climate change is shifting suitable habitat zones to higher elevations where available area is increasingly restricted. The species' specialized ecological requirements and small population size make it particularly vulnerable to continued habitat loss.

Threat summary

Habitat

This butterfly species inhabits montane cloud forests and humid tropical forests at elevations between 800-2000 meters in the Andes. It requires intact forest canopy with specific host plants and is particularly dependent on areas with consistent moisture levels and minimal human disturbance.

Other threatened species in LYCAENIDAE

EN

Black-Spotted Blue

Orachrysops mijburghi

Unknown
EN

Royal Blue

Orachrysops regalis

Unknown
Paralucia spiniferaEN

Paralucia spinifera

Unknown
EN

Mesopotamian Blue

Polyommatus dama

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Arawacus aethesa classified as Endangered?
Arawacus aethesa is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Arawacus aethesa faces severe population decline primarily due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its limited range in South American cloud forests. Mining activities and agricultural expansion have eliminated critical breeding sites, while climate change is shifting suitable habitat zones to higher elevations where available area is increasingly restricted. The species' specialized ecological requirements and small population size make it particularly vulnerable to continued habitat loss.
Where does Arawacus aethesa live?
Arawacus aethesa occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Arawacus aethesa?
The main threats to Arawacus aethesa are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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