Callistus lunatus
CR

Callistus lunatus

Local name: Beau carabique à lunule

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Callistus_lunatus

Overview

Callistus lunatus is a distinctive ground beetle characterized by its metallic bronze-green coloration and prominent crescent-shaped markings (lunules) on its elytra. This predatory beetle plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by controlling populations of small invertebrates and serving as prey for birds and other insectivores.

Callistus lunatus, a ground beetle species, faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat loss and degradation of its specialized coastal and sandy habitat requirements. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to local environmental changes and human disturbance. Climate change and coastal development pose additional pressures on the remaining suitable habitat patches.

Threat summary

Habitat

This beetle inhabits well-drained sandy soils along forest edges, particularly in areas with sparse vegetation and exposed ground patches. It shows strong preference for south-facing slopes and clearings where it can burrow into loose substrate near decaying wood or leaf litter.

TERRESTRIAL· majorTERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Beau carabique à lunule classified as Critically Endangered?
Beau carabique à lunule is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Callistus lunatus, a ground beetle species, faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat loss and degradation of its specialized coastal and sandy habitat requirements. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to local environmental changes and human disturbance. Climate change and coastal development pose additional pressures on the remaining suitable habitat patches.
Where does Beau carabique à lunule live?
Beau carabique à lunule 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 Beau carabique à lunule?
The main threats to Beau carabique à lunule 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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