EN

purpurmossmal

Bryotropha purpurella

Unknown

Overview

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

Bryotropha purpurella faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural intensification and urban development across its limited European range. The species' specialized feeding requirements on specific moss species make it particularly vulnerable to changes in microhabitat conditions. Climate change is altering the moisture regimes essential for both the moth and its moss host plants, further restricting suitable breeding sites.

Threat summary

Habitat

This specialized micro-moth inhabits moss-rich environments including old walls, rocky outcrops, and undisturbed grasslands where its larval host mosses thrive. The species requires specific microclimate conditions with consistent moisture levels to support both adult reproduction and larval development.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is purpurmossmal classified as Endangered?
purpurmossmal 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. Bryotropha purpurella faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural intensification and urban development across its limited European range. The species' specialized feeding requirements on specific moss species make it particularly vulnerable to changes in microhabitat conditions. Climate change is altering the moisture regimes essential for both the moth and its moss host plants, further restricting suitable breeding sites.
Where does purpurmossmal live?
purpurmossmal occurs in Åland Islands, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Norway, and Russia (plus 1 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 purpurmossmal?
The main threats to purpurmossmal 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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