VU

Strongylognathus italicus

Unknown

Overview

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

Strongylognathus italicus faces severe population declines due to habitat fragmentation and loss of suitable nesting sites in Mediterranean grasslands and scrublands. The species' highly specialized parasitic lifestyle, requiring specific host ant species (Tetramorium), makes it particularly vulnerable to ecosystem disruption. Urban development and agricultural intensification have reduced the availability of the dry, rocky habitats essential for both this species and its hosts.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits dry Mediterranean grasslands, scrublands, and rocky areas with sparse vegetation, typically at elevations between 200-1000 meters. It requires habitats that support healthy populations of its host ant species, particularly Tetramorium caespitum, in areas with suitable soil conditions for nest construction.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Strongylognathus italicus classified as Vulnerable?
Strongylognathus italicus 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 italicus faces severe population declines due to habitat fragmentation and loss of suitable nesting sites in Mediterranean grasslands and scrublands. The species' highly specialized parasitic lifestyle, requiring specific host ant species (Tetramorium), makes it particularly vulnerable to ecosystem disruption. Urban development and agricultural intensification have reduced the availability of the dry, rocky habitats essential for both this species and its hosts.
Where does Strongylognathus italicus live?
Strongylognathus italicus occurs in Bulgaria, Italy, and Switzerland. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Strongylognathus italicus?
The main threats to Strongylognathus italicus 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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