Four-spotted Pipiza
VU

Four-spotted Pipiza

Pipiza quadrimaculata

UnknownLCEULCEU

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

Overview

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

The Four-spotted Pipiza faces severe population declines primarily due to the loss and degradation of its specialized wetland habitats across Europe. Agricultural intensification and drainage of marshlands have eliminated critical breeding sites, while climate change is altering the hydrology of remaining suitable habitats. The species' dependence on specific host plants and prey species makes it particularly vulnerable to ecosystem disruption.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Four-spotted Pipiza inhabits wetland margins, marshes, and boggy areas with abundant vegetation, particularly favoring sites with sedges and rushes. This hoverfly species requires specific microhabitats that provide both larval development sites and adult nectar sources in close proximity.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Four-spotted Pipiza classified as Vulnerable?
Four-spotted Pipiza 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 Four-spotted Pipiza faces severe population declines primarily due to the loss and degradation of its specialized wetland habitats across Europe. Agricultural intensification and drainage of marshlands have eliminated critical breeding sites, while climate change is altering the hydrology of remaining suitable habitats. The species' dependence on specific host plants and prey species makes it particularly vulnerable to ecosystem disruption.
Where does Four-spotted Pipiza live?
Four-spotted Pipiza occurs in Åland Islands, Austria, Belgium, Cameroon, Canada, and Czechia (plus 20 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 Four-spotted Pipiza?
The main threats to Four-spotted Pipiza 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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