kwelderkaardertje
Argenna patula
Photo: Photo: (c) Frederik Leck Fischer, all rights reserved, uploaded by Frederik Leck Fischer
Overview
The kwelderkaardertje (Argenna patula) is a small, delicate moth species characterized by its pale forewings with distinctive dark markings and a wingspan of approximately 15-18mm. This nocturnal lepidopteran plays a crucial role as both a pollinator of salt-tolerant plants during its adult stage and as a herbivore in its larval form, helping maintain the delicate balance of coastal plant communities.
The kwelderkaardertje (Argenna patula) is critically endangered primarily due to habitat loss and degradation of its specialized salt marsh environments. Coastal development, sea level rise, and changes in water management have severely reduced the availability of suitable breeding and foraging habitats. The species' extremely limited range and small population size make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes and local extinctions.
Habitat
Argenna patula inhabits salt marshes and tidal mudflats along temperate coastlines, particularly areas where glasswort and sea aster grow in the transition zones between high tide marks and terrestrial vegetation. The species requires specific microhabitats with particular salinity levels and seasonal flooding patterns that support its host plants.
Other threatened species in Dictynidae
Threatened in Belgium
Frequently asked questions
Why is kwelderkaardertje classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does kwelderkaardertje live?
What are the main threats to kwelderkaardertje?
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