VU

hunebedvlekje

Fuscidea praeruptorum

Unknown

Overview

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

Fuscidea praeruptorum faces severe threats from atmospheric nitrogen deposition, which alters the chemical composition of its granite substrates and favors competing moss and grass species. Agricultural intensification and urban development have increased nitrogen pollution across its limited range in the Netherlands and northern Germany. Climate change compounds these pressures by creating warmer, more humid conditions that promote the growth of competing vegetation that can overgrow this slow-growing lichen.

Threat summary

Habitat

This specialized lichen grows exclusively on exposed granite boulders and rock surfaces, particularly ancient megalithic monuments like hunebeds (dolmens) in the Netherlands. It requires clean air conditions and specific microclimate conditions found on these nutrient-poor, acidic rock substrates.

TERRESTRIAL· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is hunebedvlekje classified as Vulnerable?
hunebedvlekje 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. Fuscidea praeruptorum faces severe threats from atmospheric nitrogen deposition, which alters the chemical composition of its granite substrates and favors competing moss and grass species. Agricultural intensification and urban development have increased nitrogen pollution across its limited range in the Netherlands and northern Germany. Climate change compounds these pressures by creating warmer, more humid conditions that promote the growth of competing vegetation that can overgrow this slow-growing lichen.
Where does hunebedvlekje live?
hunebedvlekje 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 hunebedvlekje?
The main threats to hunebedvlekje 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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