Conservation efforts are imperative because the staggering rate of biodiversity loss has become a pressing global concern. While some endangered species are fortunate enough to receive conservation efforts, others face the path toward extinction with little to no attention.
In this blog post, we shed light on some critically endangered animals that have been alarmingly overlooked. These species, assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List in 2022 and 2023, are struggling for survival. Their dire condition is accentuated by the lack of conservation efforts.
In summary, some of the species assessed by the IUCN Red List in 2022 and 2023 as critically endangered, that have no conservation efforts directed at them, are the following:
- Laysan Hedyleptan Moth (Omiodes laysanensis)
- Colpophyllia breviserialis
- Telegraphic hedyleptan moth (Omiodes telegraph)
- Lumpy-necked Flasher (Luciola tuberculata)
- Mai‘a Leafroller (Omiodes maia)
- Fer’s Marbled Bush-cricket (Eupholidoptera feri)
Laysan Hedyleptan Moth (Omiodes laysanensis)
The conservation status of Omiodes laysanensis, colloquially known as the Laysan Hedyleptan Moth, is a subject of paramount concern within the realm of biodiversity preservation. Indigenous to the Hawaiian Island of Laysan. This species has eluded comprehensive documentation since the early 1990s. It prompts scrutiny and necessitates a nuanced approach to its potential extinction.
Overview
- Species: Omiodes laysanensis
- Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct)
- IUCN Red List Assessment Year: 2022
- Last Known Collection: 1911
- Known Location: Hawaiian Island of Laysan
Habitat and ecology
Despite diligent efforts, the larval host plant for Omiodes laysanensis remains unidentified. The lack of identification poses a challenge to understanding its ecological niche.
The ecosystem of Laysan Island, once lush and vibrant, suffered significant damage in the late 1800s due to the exploitation of its bird populations. The arrival of traders led to the harvesting of bird guano. As well, as the poaching of seabirds on a massive scale, resulting in the extirpation of some species. The introduction of rabbits in the early 1900s further devastated native vegetation.
Although restoration efforts have eradicated invasive mammals, including rabbits, and native vegetation is rebounding, the impact on species like Omiodes laysanensis remains unclear.
Geographic Range
Endemic to the Hawaiian island of Laysan, Omiodes laysanensis occupies a restricted range. If it remains extant, the estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) and area of occupancy (AOO) are both approximately 16 km². Given the pervasive threat of habitat degradation due to invasive species, it is confined to a single location.
Population Status
The total population size of Omiodes laysanensis is unknown, and the species has been listed as possibly extinct since 2002. Despite limited survey efforts to verify extinction, since 1911 no recent collections or sightings have been reported. The uncertainty surrounding its population trend adds to the complexity of conservation decisions.
Threats
The specific threats to Omiodes laysanensis are not extensively studied, but the broader historical damages to Laysan’s ecosystem, such as bird poaching and invasive species introduction, have likely played a role in its decline. Restoration efforts by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have focused on eradicating invasive mammals, aiming to rejuvenate the native vegetation.
Conservation Efforts
While there are no specific conservation actions in place for Omiodes laysanensis, the broader restoration efforts on Laysan Island led by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) offer a glimmer of hope. Native vegetation restoration, achieved through the eradication of invasive mammals, could indirectly benefit Omiodes laysanensis if it still exists.
However, more comprehensive surveys, such as light trap surveys, are imperative to confirm the species’ status.
Colpophyllia breviserialis
Colpophyllia breviserialis, a widely distributed coral species, faces a critical status with a decline in coral reefs globally. Despite limited species-specific data, the vulnerability analysis suggests moderate susceptibility to major threats, including disease and bleaching. Two approaches infer past and future population trends, leading to the classification of Critically Endangered under category A3c.
Overview
- Species: Colpophyllia breviserialis
- Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct)
- IUCN Red List Assessment Year: 2022
- Population Status: Decreasing
- Known Location: distributed in the western Atlantic from Veracruz, Mexico, to the Florida Keys, U.S., including the southern Gulf of Mexico and throughout the Caribbean.
Habitat and Ecology
This species inhabits coral reef walls, primarily in the depth range of 5-30 meters. Recorded extensive bleaching events contribute to the overall vulnerability of the species.
Geographic Range
You can see Colpophyllia breviserialis in the western Atlantic, from Veracruz, Mexico, to the Florida Keys, U.S., and throughout the Caribbean.
Find the species in coral reef walls, predominantly within the depth range of 5-30 meters.
Population Status
The population size of C. breviserialis is challenging to assess globally due to limited species-specific data. However, coral reefs, in general, have experienced severe declines. Past decline estimates, based on coral reef monitoring data, indicate a 16% decline since 1989.
It is believed that the species will decline by at least 80% over the next three generations, approximately by 2050, based on the projected onset of annual severe bleaching (ASB) conditions. This projection considers the species’ depth range, bleaching vulnerability, and climate change scenarios (SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5).
Threats
Severe bleaching conditions caused by climate change, including rising temperatures, have been causing the species’ global decline. Threats include disease susceptibility, with recorded similarities to Colpophyllia natans.
Lastly, the species is poorly known due to taxonomic confusion but may be relatively common in parts of the Colombian Caribbean.
Conservation Measures
Colpophyllia breviserialis lacks species-specific conservation measures. A priority is taxonomic research, emphasizing the need for a better understanding of this poorly known species.
Telegraphic hedyleptan moth (Omiodes telegraph)
The conservation status of Omiodes telegrapha, a morphologically distinct leafroller moth indigenous to the island of Hawai‘i, stands at a critical juncture. Designated as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct) under criterion D by the IUCN Red List in 2022, this species, known only from the type specimen, has not been collected for over a century, prompting concerns about its potential extinction.
Overview
- Species: Omiodes telegrapha
- Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct)
- IUCN Red List Assessment Year: 2022
- Last Known Collection: Before 1899
- Known Location: Hawaiian Island of Hawai‘i
Habitat and Ecology
The host plant and specific ecological requirements of Omiodes telegrapha remain shrouded in mystery. Presumed to feed on grass based on the habits of similar species, the lack of detailed ecological knowledge poses challenges to formulating targeted conservation strategies.
Geographic Range
Endemic to the Hawaiian Island of Hawai‘i, Omiodes telegrapha is known only from the type specimen collected before 1899. The estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) and area of occupancy (AOO) are unknown, emphasizing the urgency of further surveys to understand its distribution.
Population Status
The population size and trend of Omiodes telegrapha remain a mystery. Suggestions of likely extinction date back to 1982, although the comprehensive nature of survey efforts is uncertain. The inferred small population size (0-49 mature individuals) reflects the difficulty in detecting a species with such limited visibility.
Omiodes telegrapha’s status as possibly extinct is underscored by assessments from both the Hawaiian Biological Survey and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The lack of collections for over a century raises questions about the adequacy of survey efforts and necessitates additional surveys near the type locality to ascertain its current existence.
Threats
While specific threats to Omiodes telegrapha are unknown, parallels are drawn to potential threats impacting other Omiodes species, including host plant declines and predation by non-native invertebrates. Historical releases of non-native parasitoids, intended for pest control, may have inadvertently contributed to declines in Omiodes moth populations.
Conservation Efforts
As of now, there are no specific conservation measures in place for Omiodes telegrapha. Limited knowledge about its distribution, population, and habitat preferences underscores the need for targeted efforts. Attempts to collect specimens around the type locality are recommended to provide clarity on the species’ current status.
Lumpy-necked Flasher (Luciola tuberculata)
Luciola tuberculata, commonly known as the Lumpy-necked Flasher, faces critical endangerment in its exclusive habitat of Ng Tung Chai, Hong Kong. With an extremely small population, the species contends with escalating threats such as habitat degradation from human activities, including new constructions and LED light pollution. The concentrated population in a single location amplifies the risks, warranting a Critically Endangered status due to a decline in habitat quality and an alarming lack of conservation measures.
Overview
- Species: Luciola tuberculata
- Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
- IUCN Red List Assessment Year: 2023
- Known Location: Ng Tung Chai, Hong Kong.
Habitat and Ecology
Luciola tuberculata, also known as the Lumpy-necked Flasher, is a narrowly distributed and highly restricted flashing firefly species found solely in a river valley and lowland forest area in Hong Kong. It thrives at an altitude of 120–160 meters above sea level, with a habitat covering shrubland and lowland forest. The larval stage, food sources, and life history remain unknown, but it is assumed that, like other Lampyridae species, it feeds on soft-bodied invertebrates. Adult activity, characterized by distinctive flashing light displays, occurs in May and early June.
Geographic Range
The species is exclusively found in Ng Tung Chai, Hong Kong, occupying an area of 4 km². It has not been reported in any other locations despite extensive firefly surveys conducted in Hong Kong from 2009 to 2020.
Population Status
The population size of Luciola tuberculata is challenging to ascertain due to limited data. Occasional individuals have been observed during site visits, with around 100 individuals spotted in specific visits. The population exhibits fluctuations, suggesting a boom in numbers over a limited period. The species, however, remains small compared to other firefly species.
Threats
The major threats faced by Luciola tuberculata include habitat deterioration due to human activities. Recent urban developments, such as new houses and street lamps with strong LED lights, have led to the clearing of vegetation and increased light pollution. The addition of LED street lighting is particularly concerning, as it is significantly more polluting than traditional lighting. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also intensified human disturbance, with increased recreational activities in Ng Tung Chai, negatively impacting the species’ habitat.
Conservation Measures
Currently, there are no specific conservation actions in place for Luciola tuberculata. One of the occurrence sites falls within the Country Park, protected under the Country Parks Ordinance (Chapter 208, Hong Kong Laws), and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). However, additional measures, including further research and habitat protection, are crucial for the species’ conservation.
Mai‘a Leafroller
(Omiodes maia)
Omiodes maia, commonly known as the Mai‘a Leafroller, stands as an endemic species native to the Hawaiian Islands of Kaua‘i and O‘ahu. It exclusively thrives on non-native Polynesian bananas.
Not sighted in a century, its critical endangerment stems from habitat loss and scarce host plants. Listed as Possibly Extinct, its elusive nature hints at a minuscule population, demanding urgent surveys. The species’ fate hinges on preserving wild banana habitats and understanding its current status.
Overview
- Species: Omiodes Maia
- Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct)
- IUCN Red List Assessment Year: 2022
- Last Known Collection: 1919
- Known Location: Hawaiian Islands of Kaua‘i and O‘ahu
Habitat and Ecology
Known to exist on non-native bananas introduced around 1,200 years ago, Omiodes maia has a peculiar preference for Polynesian banana varieties that exist in the wild but are rare. The species is likely restricted to inaccessible forest habitats such as recesses, upper valleys, ravines, steep slopes, and summit ridges.
Geographic Range
Historically occurring on the Hawaiian Islands of O‘ahu and Kaua‘i, the current distribution is unknown. The historical extent of occurrence is estimated to be less than 9,210 km², encompassing the entire islands but not accounting for the specific distribution within.
Population Status
Locating Omiodes maia can be challenging because there are no recent records since the early 1980s. Therefore the absence of recent collections raises concerns about its extinction.
Inferred to have a small population size (0-49 mature individuals) if extant, targeted sampling in habitats containing banana host plants and historical collection sites is crucial for verification.
Threats
Furthermore, while specific threats to O. maia are yet to be identified, potential risks mirror those impacting other Omiodes moths. The release of non-native parasitoids between 1895 and 1960 to control other pests, habitat alteration, and introduced invertebrate predators are among the potential threats. The exact impact on O. maia remains uncertain.
Conservation Measures
Currently, no specific conservation measures are in place, necessitating a concerted effort to sample historically known collection sites and suitable habitats where wild bananas grow. Rediscovery would warrant habitat protections and research on current distribution and population size.
Fer’s Marbled Bush-cricket (Eupholidoptera feri)
Eupholidoptera feri, known as Fer’s Marbled Bush-cricket, faces a critical status in its exclusive habitat on the Katharo Mountain Plateau in eastern Crete, Greece. Endemic to the region, this species inhabits maquis-like vegetation dominated by Quercus spp. shrubs. Its precarious state is attributed to the dual threats of bushfires and cultivation, resulting in a Critically Endangered classification.
The species’ extremely limited extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, coupled with a single location, necessitates urgent conservation actions. Ongoing habitat research, population assessment, and protective measures are imperative for its survival.
Overview
- Species: Eupholidoptera feri
- Conservation Status: Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct)
- IUCN Red List Assessment Year: 2023
- Population status: decreasing
- Known Location: Katharo Mountain Plateau in eastern Crete, Greece.
Habitat and Ecology
This bush-cricket is found in 1–2 m high Quercus sp. shrubs in the Katharo plateau. It likely inhabits maquis shrubland habitat. The conversion of maquis shrublands into vineyards poses a threat, along with potential bushfires.
Geographic Range
The species is exclusively reported from a single locality on the Katharo Mountain Plateau in eastern Crete. The extent of occurrence (EOO) and area of occupancy (AOO) are both estimated to be around 4 km².
Population Status
No specific data on population size or trend are available. However, the species faces a continuing decline due to habitat loss and bushfires. The species is not utilized.
Threats
Habitat loss, primarily from the conversion of maquis shrublands into cultivated vineyards, poses a significant threat. Additionally, bushfires further endanger its single known location.
Conservation Measures
No specific conservation measures are in place. Regardless, at least one protected area houses the species. We need to urgently conduct research to comprehend population dynamics, ecology, and threats. Habitat protection and effective management of agricultural land use and fires are crucial.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these endangered species emphasize the urgent need for conservation efforts to be directed at them, as they face imminent threats.
Targeted conservation efforts, habitat protection, and ongoing research are essential for their survival. Without swift intervention, the risk of losing these unique species is heightened, contributing to the broader challenge of global biodiversity loss.
Our collective responsibility is to ensure the preservation of these remarkable species for the benefit of ecosystems and future generations. If you want to read more about wildlife conservation, go here!