Silver Colonel
Odontomyia argentata
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odontomyia_argentata
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Silver Colonel faces severe habitat degradation from agricultural intensification and urban development across its European range. Wetland drainage and pollution from agricultural runoff have eliminated many breeding sites, while climate change is altering the moisture regimes essential for larval development. The species' specialized requirements for clean, shallow water bodies with specific vegetation make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Habitat
The Silver Colonel inhabits clean, shallow freshwater environments including marshes, pond margins, and slow-flowing streams with abundant emergent vegetation. Adults are typically found near water bodies where they feed on nectar, while larvae develop in the muddy substrates of these aquatic habitats.
Other threatened species in Stratiomyidae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Silver Colonel classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Silver Colonel live?
What are the main threats to Silver Colonel?
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