MAIISG

Assessment Rationale:

Bembidion derelictus is endemic to Flores (Azores, Portugal). It has a very small extent of occurrence (EOO = 0-12 km²) and area of occupancy (AOO = 0-12 km²). The species occurs only at one location and is possibly extinct (Terzopoulou et al. 2015). The last record dates from 1888. Therefore, it is assessed as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct). Further research is needed into its ecology and life history in order to find possible extant specimens.

Geographic Range:

Bembidion derelictus is a single island endemic species restricted to Flores (Azores, Portugal) (Borges et al. 2010), known from Caldeira Comprida in the Natural Forest Reserve of Morro Alto e Pico da Sé. It has a very small extent of occurrence (EOO = 0-12 km²) and area of occupancy (AOO = 0-12 km²). The species is considered possibly extinct (Terzopoulou et al. 2015).

Population:

The species is only known from a single subpopulation. A continuing decline in the number of mature individuals is inferred from historical records. According to Terzopoulou et al. (2015) this species is extinct.

Habitat and Ecology

The species occurred in the hyper-humid native forest of the Flores Island (Azores) dominated by Juniperus brevifolia woodland, with an altitudinal range between 562 and 870 m. This species is possibly considered extinct (Terzopoulou et al. 2015).

Major Threat(s):

In the past, the species has probably strongly declined due to changes in habitat size and its large body size (Terzopoulou et al., 2015). Based on Ferreira et al. (2016) the habitat will further decline as a consequence of climate change (increasing number of droughts).

Conservation Actions

The species is protected by regional law (RAA 2012). Its habitat is located in a regionally protected area (Natural Park of Flores Island).  Therefore, degraded habitats in the  Natural Park of Flores Island should be restored and a strategy needs to be developed to address the future threat by invasive species and climate change in this area.  Ultimately, more area of pristine Juniperus brevifolia woodland is required around the lower-altitude, sheltered parts of the cloud forest zone, with greater connectivity between them. Formal education and awareness is needed to allow future investments in restored habitats invaded by invasive plants. Further research is needed into its ecology and life history in order to find extant specimens and obtain information on population size, distribution and trends.  It is also necessary a area-based management plan and a monitoring plan for the invertebrate community in the habitat in order to contribute to perform a species potential recovery plan. Monitoring every ten years using the BALA protocol will inform about habitat quality (see e.g. Gaspar et al. 2011).