MAIISG

Assessment Rationale:

The Gomera Green Bush-cricket (Calliphona gomerensis) is endemic to the laurel forests of La Gomera. Although its habitats are still quite common and protected on La Gomera, it is threatened by increasing fire frequencies, which have recently even affected the Garajonay National Park. The species is only known from five locations and has a small area of occupancy (AOO) of 32 km² with a maximum estimate of 100 km². Its extent of occurrence (EOO) is 142 km² with a maximum estimate of 200 km². There is a continuing decline in the extent of occurrence (EOO), area of occupancy (AOO), extent and quality of the habitat, number of subpopulations and the number of mature individuals. It is therefore assessed as Endangered (EN).

Geographic Range:

The Gomera Green Bush-cricket is endemic to La Gomera, where it mainly occurs in laurel forest (Pfau and Pfau 2007, Arnedo et al. 2008). Its known extent of occurrence (EOO) is 142 km² with a maximum estimate of 200 km². Its known area of occupancy (AOO) is 32 km² with a maximum estimate of 100 km².

Population:

The species is quite widespread in the forests of La Gomera, but the population is decreasing as a consequence of recent wildfires.

Habitat and Ecology

Calliphona gomerensis occurs mainly in laurel forests and other forested habitats. Its altitudinal range is 130 - 1,350 m.

Major Threat(s):

The species is mainly confined to laurel forests, which are still common on La Gomera, but threatened by increasing fire frequencies. A large wildfire in 2012 has destroyed parts of its habitat. On the basis of this threat, the species is known from five locations. It may also be affected by the risk of landslides.

Conservation Actions

There are no specific conservation actions in place for this species, but it occurs in protected areas throughout its range. More research on its population trend is needed. Proper fire management is required to avoid future declines, and the destroyed habitat needs to be restored.