Seathorn Groundling, Seathorn Spinner
Gelechia hippophaella
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gelechia_hippophaella
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Seathorn Groundling faces severe population decline primarily due to coastal habitat degradation and the loss of its specialized host plant, sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides). Coastal development, dune stabilization projects, and agricultural conversion have eliminated critical breeding sites along European coastlines. Climate change-induced sea level rise and increased storm intensity further threaten remaining coastal dune systems where this moth depends on healthy sea buckthorn communities for larval development.
Habitat
This specialized moth inhabits coastal dunes, sandy shores, and maritime heathlands where sea buckthorn grows naturally. The species requires stable populations of its host plant in areas with minimal human disturbance, typically found in dynamic coastal ecosystems with shifting sands and natural vegetation succession.
Other threatened species in Gelechiidae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Seathorn Groundling, Seathorn Spinner classified as Endangered?
Where does Seathorn Groundling, Seathorn Spinner live?
What are the main threats to Seathorn Groundling, Seathorn Spinner?
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