VU

Strongylognathus karawajevi

Unknown

Overview

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

Strongylognathus karawajevi faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in Central Asia. The species' highly specialized parasitic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to disruption of host ant colonies, as it depends entirely on enslaving workers of specific Tetramorium species. Climate change poses additional risks by altering the delicate ecological balance required for successful host-parasite relationships in steppe environments.

Threat summary

Habitat

This specialized slave-making ant inhabits dry steppe grasslands and semi-arid regions of Central Asia, particularly in Kazakhstan and surrounding areas. The species requires specific microhabitats that support both its own colonies and those of its Tetramorium host species in areas with sparse vegetation and well-drained soils.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Strongylognathus karawajevi classified as Vulnerable?
Strongylognathus karawajevi 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 karawajevi faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in Central Asia. The species' highly specialized parasitic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to disruption of host ant colonies, as it depends entirely on enslaving workers of specific Tetramorium species. Climate change poses additional risks by altering the delicate ecological balance required for successful host-parasite relationships in steppe environments.
Where does Strongylognathus karawajevi live?
Strongylognathus karawajevi occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Strongylognathus karawajevi?
The main threats to Strongylognathus karawajevi 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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