Baryphyma maritimum
Local name: Küsten-Lochköpfchen
Overview
The Küsten-Lochköpfchen (Baryphyma maritimum) is a distinctive coastal arthropod characterized by its perforated head capsule and robust, barrel-shaped body adapted for life in harsh maritime environments. This specialized invertebrate plays a crucial role as a detritivore in coastal ecosystems, breaking down organic matter and serving as prey for shorebirds and other coastal predators.
Baryphyma maritimum faces severe population declines primarily due to coastal habitat destruction from urban development and tourism infrastructure along Mediterranean coastlines. Climate change-induced sea level rise and increased storm intensity further threaten its specialized coastal cliff and rocky shore habitats.
Habitat
This species inhabits the upper intertidal zones of rocky coastlines and mixed sand-gravel beaches, particularly in areas where organic debris accumulates in crevices and under boulder fields. It requires specific moisture gradients found in the transition zone between terrestrial vegetation and marine influence, often associated with decaying kelp wrack and other marine organic matter.
Other threatened species in Linyphiidae
Threatened in Belgium
Frequently asked questions
Why is Küsten-Lochköpfchen classified as Endangered?
Where does Küsten-Lochköpfchen live?
What are the main threats to Küsten-Lochköpfchen?
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