Elga newtonsantosi
Overview
Elga newtonsantosi is a species currently classified as Critically Endangered (CR) by the IUCN Red List, placing it among the taxa facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. As with many recently described or narrowly distributed species, detailed long-term ecological studies are limited, but its CR designation reflects a documented combination of small population size, restricted range, and ongoing habitat pressure sufficient to meet IUCN's rigorous listing criteria. Species assigned to this category typically occupy a narrow geographic range or a small number of fragmented locations, making them acutely vulnerable to localized disturbances such as land conversion, resource extraction, or shifts in local environmental conditions.
Population trend data for this species is currently listed as unknown, underscoring the need for expanded field surveys and monitoring to establish reliable baselines. Conservation attention for CR-listed species like this one typically involves prioritization for habitat protection, inclusion in regional biodiversity action plans, and candidacy for targeted survey funding from conservation organizations working in its native range. On a positive note, formal recognition of a species' CR status often serves as a catalyst for increased research investment and conservation funding, and the designation itself has historically helped drive the creation of protected areas and species-specific recovery programs for comparably rare taxa.
Continued taxonomic and ecological research will be essential to clarify this species' precise habitat requirements, population size, and the specific pressures it faces, enabling conservationists to design effective, targeted interventions before its situation worsens further.
Elga newtonsantosi faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development within its extremely limited range. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes and human activities. Mining operations and infrastructure development pose additional pressures on the remaining suitable habitat patches.
Habitat
This species inhabits specific microhabitats within tropical forest ecosystems, likely requiring particular soil conditions and vegetation structure. Its habitat preferences appear to be highly specialized, contributing to its extremely restricted geographic distribution.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in LIBELLULIDAE
Threatened in Brazil
Frequently asked questions
Why is Elga newtonsantosi classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Elga newtonsantosi live?
What are the main threats to Elga newtonsantosi?
Get weekly conservation intelligence
One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.
Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.