MAIISG

Assessment Rationale:

Actinella carinofausta appears to be restricted to a single valley on Madeira, however the current population status requires further review, as it maybe closely related to other species of Actinella. It could be listed as Endangered, Vulnerable D2, Near Threatened pending the taxonomic research. On a precautionary principle the species is listed as Endangered as there is only a small known range at present (area of occupancy = 8 km²), with only two closely localised sites, and the quality of habitat seems to be declining.

Geographic Range:

This species is considered to be endemic to Madeira, the taxa is rare, with most records from a single valley in the northeast of Madeira (Bank et al. 2002) (Estreito de Camera de Lobos), although Walden (1983) lists one locality from southern Madeira.

Population:

The taxa is rare, with few records, and as such there is insufficient data for population trends.

Habitat and Ecology

This species is found in grass tussocks, amongst rocks and leaf-litter.

Major Threat(s):

There is a possible decline in the habitat due to presence of roads through the habitat (litter, pollution, dust, non-native plants), as well as encroaching urbanization and occasional fires.

Conservation Actions

There are no known conservation actions for this species, however it is considered to be poorly known, with a need for further research on the population status, distribution and threats.