MAIISG

Assessment Rationale:

Javesella azorica is an endemic planthopper species present in the seven islands of the Azorean archipelago (Corvo, Faial, Flores, Pico, Terceira, São Jorge and São Miguel) (Borges et al. 2010). It has a relatively small area of ocupancy (AOO = 188 km²), but a large extent of ocurrence (EOO = ca 25,800 km²). It is usually associated with herbaceous vegetation, feeding on native and exotic grasses and sedges. The quality of the habitat is decreasing due to the spread of invasive species (Hedychium gardnerianum) that is changing the habitat structure. Based on Ferreira et al. (2016) the habitat will decline as a consequence of climate change. Based upon the small AOO and the fact that the area of occupancy of this species continues in decline due to habitat degradation in the native forest (mostly due to invasive plants) and to habitat fragmentation, it is assessed as Near Threatened (NT).

Geographic Range:

Javesella azorica is an endemic planthopper species present in the seven islands of the Azorean archipelago (Corvo, Faial, Flores, Pico, Terceira, São Jorge and São Miguel) (Borges et al. 2010). Within these seven islands it is known from three Natural Forest Reserves: Morro Alto e Pico da Sé (Flores), Caldeira do Faial (Faial), Pico Pinheito (São Jorge). The extent of occurrence (EOO) is ca 25,800 km² and the maximum estimated area of occupancy (AOO) is 188 km².

Population:

Javesella azorica is widespread and abundant in several islands, occurring mostly in native vegetation but also in exotic or naturalised vegetation.

Habitat and Ecology

Javesella azorica occurs mostly in native vegetation but also in exotic or naturalised vegetation. It is usually associated with herbaceous vegetation, feeding on native and exotic grasses and sedges.

Major Threat(s):

In the past, the species has probably strongly declined due to changes in habitat size and quality (Triantis et al. 2010). However, the species seems to have survived in the remaining native forests and semi-natural grasslands of several islands, as well as in some Human modified habitats. The main current threat is the spread of invasive species namelyHedychium gardnerianum. Based on Ferreira et al. (2016) the habitat will further decline as a consequence of climate change (increasing number of droughts and habitat shifting & alteration).

Conservation Actions

The species is not protected by regional law. Its habitat is in regionally protected areas (Natural Parks of Corvo, Faial,  Pico and S. Miguel). Further research is needed to monitor the species and conservation measures to control the invasive plant Hedychium gardnerianum should be implemented to improve habitat quality for this species. Degraded habitats should be restored and a strategy needs to be developed to address the future threat by climate change. It is necessary a monitoring plan for the invertebrate community in the habitat in order to contribute to the conservation of this species. A habitat management plan is needed and anticipated to be developed during the coming years. Monitoring every ten years using the BALA protocol will inform about habitat quality (see e.g. Gaspar et al. 2010).