Back • Gietella faialensis Menier & Constantin, 1988
Countries of Occurrence:
Portugal - Azores
Archipelago(s):
Azores
Assessor/s:
Lucas Lamelas López
Paulo A.V. Borges
Reviewer/s:
Danielczak, A.
Contributor/s:
Facilitators / Compilers/s:
Gietella faialensis is an endemic species from Faial (Azores, Portugal). It has a very small extent of occurrence (EOO = 4 km²) and area of occupancy (EOO = 4 km²). There is a continuing decline in the EOO, AOO, extent and quality of habitat due to natural ongoing erosion of the Capelinhos Volcan. The species occurs only at one location and is associated with a lavicolous habitat. Therefore, we suggest as future measures of conservation: (1) regular monitoring of the species; and (2) maintenance of the habitat. Based upon the small geographic range of the species with only one location and continuing decline of its habitat area and quality, it is assessed as Critically Endangered.
Gietella faialensis is a single island endemic species from Faial (Azores, Portugal) (Borges et al. 2010), known from the protected area of Vulc?o dos Capelinhos. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is 4 km² and the maximum estimated area of occupancy (AOO) is 4 km².
The species is very rare and only known from a single subpopulation in Faial island. The only known individuals are the Holotypus and paratypus.
This species is a lavicolous species, occurring in volcanic formations, mainly in the crater and on the lava of Vulcão dos Capelinhos of Faial island (Oromí et al. 1990). This species is saprophagous.
The main threat to this species is the natural erosion of its habitat a coastal volcano. Based on Ferreira et al. (2016) the habitat will further decline as a consequence of climate change (increasing number of droughts). Future volcanic activities in the same area may drive this species to extinction.
The species is protected by regional law (RAA 2008). Its habitat is in a regionally protected area (Natural Park of Faial). Further research is needed into its ecology and life history in order to find extant specimens. It is necessary a monitoring plan for the invertebrate community in the habitat in order to contribute to the conservation of this species.