The Victorian government’s decision has put a critically endangered species of stonefly at risk of extinction, despite its ability to outlive other insects. This decision has been deemed “incredibly disappointing.”

The Victorian National Parks Association asserts that their request for the Mount Donna Buang wingless stonefly to be given a critical habitat determination was denied by the government on Monday, causing frustration.

The association noted that the determination would have provided extended protection for the stonefly, a species known for its astonishingly long lifespan of over two years.

Houseflies typically have a lifespan of 25 days, while many other insects have a shorter lifespan of less than one year.

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According to the association, the government went against the recommendations of its own scientists who supported implementing additional protection measures.

According to Jordan Crook, a campaigner with the association, the state’s environment department’s decision to disregard the recommendations of their own scientific advisers and the strong scientific evidence supporting the critical habitat application is extremely disheartening.

The stonefly is found in a limited location and is at risk from various dangers such as changes in weather, fires, contamination of water and human visitation. As a result, it requires careful oversight and protection.

A review of the wingless stonefly’s habitat would have initiated steps to ensure protection for this unique creature and prevent its extinction.

The association declared that the stonefly was on the brink of extinction due to a recent decision, despite being protected in a national park. This decision goes against years of scientific evidence which has shown an 80% decline in the stonefly population.

The wingless stonefly of Mount Donna Buang has undergone millions of years of evolution, resulting in the loss of its wings as a necessity.

The animal resides near streams on a mountainside approximately 90 minutes from Melbourne. In the summer, it burrows near the stream’s edge, and other times it can be found living in tree bark.

Out of the 2,000 species facing threats in the state of Victoria, the stonefly is one of 500 that are considered critically endangered.

Crook stated that it is now necessary for the Victorian government to take action and utilize all available methods, such as critical habitat determinations, to safeguard the increasing number of endangered species.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action has been reached out to for a response.

Source: theguardian.com