VU

Metadiaptomus capensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Metadiaptomus capensis faces severe threats from urban development and agricultural expansion around Cape Town's temporary wetlands. Water abstraction for municipal and agricultural use has dramatically reduced the hydroperiod of seasonal pools, while pollution from urban runoff and agricultural chemicals degrades remaining habitat quality. Climate change is intensifying drought conditions in the Western Cape, further reducing the availability of suitable breeding pools.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic copepod inhabits temporary freshwater pools and seasonal wetlands in the Western Cape region of South Africa. It requires shallow, ephemeral water bodies that fill during winter rains and gradually dry out, completing its life cycle within these temporary aquatic systems.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Metadiaptomus capensis classified as Vulnerable?
Metadiaptomus capensis 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. Metadiaptomus capensis faces severe threats from urban development and agricultural expansion around Cape Town's temporary wetlands. Water abstraction for municipal and agricultural use has dramatically reduced the hydroperiod of seasonal pools, while pollution from urban runoff and agricultural chemicals degrades remaining habitat quality. Climate change is intensifying drought conditions in the Western Cape, further reducing the availability of suitable breeding pools.
Where does Metadiaptomus capensis live?
Metadiaptomus capensis occurs in South Africa. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Metadiaptomus capensis?
The main threats to Metadiaptomus capensis 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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