Sphaerophoria loewii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Sphaerophoria loewii faces severe population decline primarily due to the destruction and degradation of its specialized saltmarsh habitats along European coastlines. Coastal development, land reclamation for agriculture, and rising sea levels have dramatically reduced the availability of suitable breeding sites. The species' narrow ecological requirements make it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, as remaining saltmarsh patches become increasingly isolated and unable to support viable populations.
Habitat
This specialized hoverfly inhabits coastal saltmarshes and brackish wetlands, particularly areas with dense vegetation of salt-tolerant plants. The species requires specific microhabitats within these ecosystems, including areas with appropriate flowering plants for nectar feeding and suitable substrates for larval development.
Other threatened species in Syrphidae
Threatened in Åland Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Sphaerophoria loewii classified as Endangered?
Where does Sphaerophoria loewii live?
What are the main threats to Sphaerophoria loewii?
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