dwergbootsmannetje
VU

dwergbootsmannetje

Plea minutissima

Unknown

Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Kutushev Radik, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Kutushev Radik

Overview

The dwergbootsmannetje (Plea minutissima) is one of Europe's smallest aquatic bugs, measuring only 1.5-2.5mm in length with a distinctive boat-shaped body and pale yellowish-brown coloration. This tiny predator plays a crucial role in freshwater ecosystems by feeding on microscopic invertebrates and serving as prey for larger aquatic insects and small fish.

The dwergbootsmannetje faces increasing pressure from habitat degradation due to water pollution, eutrophication, and climate-induced changes to aquatic ecosystems. Its specialized requirements for clean, well-oxygenated freshwater environments make it particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances and water quality deterioration.

Threat summary

Habitat

Inhabits clean, shallow freshwater environments including ponds, slow-flowing streams, ditches, and temporary pools with abundant aquatic vegetation. Requires well-oxygenated water bodies with minimal pollution and stable water levels for successful reproduction and development.

Threatened in Albania

Calidris ferrugineaVU

Calidris ferruginea

Declining
Anthophore estivaleCR

Anthophore estivale

Anthophora aestivalis

Unknown
Adonis BlueVU

Adonis Blue

Lysandra bellargus

Unknown
VU

Anthribus fasciatus

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is dwergbootsmannetje classified as Vulnerable?
dwergbootsmannetje 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. The dwergbootsmannetje faces increasing pressure from habitat degradation due to water pollution, eutrophication, and climate-induced changes to aquatic ecosystems. Its specialized requirements for clean, well-oxygenated freshwater environments make it particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbances and water quality deterioration.
Where does dwergbootsmannetje live?
dwergbootsmannetje occurs in Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Croatia (plus 34 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to dwergbootsmannetje?
The main threats to dwergbootsmannetje 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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