EN

Mindre Savblomfluga

Brachyopa obscura

UnknownLCEULCEU

Overview

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

Brachyopa obscura faces severe population decline primarily due to the loss of ancient woodland habitats containing the specific microhabitats it requires for breeding. The species depends on tree holes and sap runs in mature deciduous trees, particularly those with fungal infections that create the precise conditions needed for larval development. Intensive forestry practices and woodland fragmentation have eliminated many suitable breeding sites across its limited European range.

Threat summary

Habitat

This specialized hoverfly inhabits ancient deciduous woodlands, particularly beech and oak forests with abundant dead wood and tree holes. The species requires specific microhabitats including sap runs, fungal-infected tree cavities, and areas with rich lichen growth that support the complex ecosystem needed for its saproxylic lifestyle.

Other threatened species in Syrphidae

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Merodon longispina

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saksische fopwespCR

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Chrysotoxum verralli

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zwartpootgitjeCR

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Cheilosia nigripes

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piemelkrieltjeEN

piemelkrieltje

Paragus tibialis

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Threatened in Åland Islands

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VU

Syndyas nigripes

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Chrysotus cupreusCR

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narulukkokiiluri

Syntormon filiger

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Mindre Savblomfluga classified as Endangered?
Mindre Savblomfluga is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Brachyopa obscura faces severe population decline primarily due to the loss of ancient woodland habitats containing the specific microhabitats it requires for breeding. The species depends on tree holes and sap runs in mature deciduous trees, particularly those with fungal infections that create the precise conditions needed for larval development. Intensive forestry practices and woodland fragmentation have eliminated many suitable breeding sites across its limited European range.
Where does Mindre Savblomfluga live?
Mindre Savblomfluga occurs in Åland Islands, Austria, Finland, France, Germany, and Norway (plus 3 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 Mindre Savblomfluga?
The main threats to Mindre Savblomfluga 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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