VU

Chalepoxenus zabelini

Unknown

Overview

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

Chalepoxenus zabelini faces significant threats from habitat degradation and fragmentation of its specialized steppe environments. As a socially parasitic ant species dependent on specific host ant colonies, any disruption to the delicate ecological balance of its grassland habitats severely impacts both the parasite and its hosts. Agricultural expansion and overgrazing in Central Asian steppes have reduced suitable nesting sites and altered the microclimatic conditions essential for both C. zabelini and its host species.

Threat summary

Habitat

This socially parasitic ant species inhabits dry steppes and semi-arid grasslands across Central Asia, particularly in Kazakhstan and surrounding regions. It requires specific microhabitat conditions within established colonies of its host ant species, typically in areas with sparse vegetation and well-drained soils.

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Manica parasitica

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Chalepoxenus zabelini classified as Vulnerable?
Chalepoxenus zabelini is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Chalepoxenus zabelini faces significant threats from habitat degradation and fragmentation of its specialized steppe environments. As a socially parasitic ant species dependent on specific host ant colonies, any disruption to the delicate ecological balance of its grassland habitats severely impacts both the parasite and its hosts. Agricultural expansion and overgrazing in Central Asian steppes have reduced suitable nesting sites and altered the microclimatic conditions essential for both C. zabelini and its host species.
Where does Chalepoxenus zabelini live?
Chalepoxenus zabelini 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 Chalepoxenus zabelini?
The main threats to Chalepoxenus zabelini 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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