VU

Strongylognathus destefanii

Unknown

Overview

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

Strongylognathus destefanii faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to urbanization and agricultural intensification across its Mediterranean range. The species' highly specialized parasitic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to disruption of host ant colonies, as it depends entirely on Tetramorium species for survival. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the delicate ecological balance required for successful host-parasite relationships in its already fragmented habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

This specialized slave-making ant inhabits Mediterranean scrubland, dry grasslands, and rocky hillsides where its host species Tetramorium occur. The species requires well-drained soils and open areas with scattered vegetation that support stable host ant colonies.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Strongylognathus destefanii classified as Vulnerable?
Strongylognathus destefanii is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Strongylognathus destefanii faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to urbanization and agricultural intensification across its Mediterranean range. The species' highly specialized parasitic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to disruption of host ant colonies, as it depends entirely on Tetramorium species for survival. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the delicate ecological balance required for successful host-parasite relationships in its already fragmented habitat.
Where does Strongylognathus destefanii live?
Strongylognathus destefanii occurs in Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Malta, and Spain. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Strongylognathus destefanii?
The main threats to Strongylognathus destefanii 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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