Spearmarked Black Moth
Rheumaptera hastata
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argent_and_sable
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Spearmarked Black Moth faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat loss from deforestation and land conversion in its boreal forest range. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the temperature and moisture conditions essential for its host plants, particularly birch species. The moth's specialized ecological requirements and limited dispersal ability make it particularly vulnerable to fragmentation of its remaining forest habitats.
Habitat
The Spearmarked Black Moth inhabits boreal and montane forests across northern Europe and North America, particularly favoring areas with abundant birch trees which serve as its primary larval host plants. It typically occurs in cool, moist forest environments at elevations between 200-1500 meters.
Other threatened species in Geometridae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Spearmarked Black Moth classified as Endangered?
Where does Spearmarked Black Moth live?
What are the main threats to Spearmarked Black Moth?
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