mosslankmier
EN

mosslankmier

Leptothorax muscorum

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leptothorax_muscorum

Overview

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

The mosslankmier faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat fragmentation and loss of its specialized moss-dominated microhabitats. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering moisture regimes essential for moss growth, while agricultural intensification and urban development continue to reduce suitable nesting sites. The species' highly specific ecological requirements and limited dispersal ability make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.

Threat summary

Habitat

The mosslankmier inhabits moss-rich environments including forest floors, grasslands, and heathlands where thick moss layers provide essential nesting sites. This specialized ant species requires stable moisture conditions and undisturbed moss communities to maintain its colonies.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is mosslankmier classified as Endangered?
mosslankmier 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. The mosslankmier faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat fragmentation and loss of its specialized moss-dominated microhabitats. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering moisture regimes essential for moss growth, while agricultural intensification and urban development continue to reduce suitable nesting sites. The species' highly specific ecological requirements and limited dispersal ability make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Where does mosslankmier live?
mosslankmier occurs in Åland Islands, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Canada, and Colombia (plus 21 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 mosslankmier?
The main threats to mosslankmier 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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