Notes on diversity and conservation of the European fauna of Plecoptera (Insecta)

Plecoptera are one the most endangered groups of insects in running waters. Due to their strict ecological needs and to the growing pollution of water courses, many species are in fact reduced to small isolated populations and many others have already become extinct. With the aim of compiling the taxonomic and faunistic lists of European Plecoptera (within the project Fauna Europaea, ref. EVR1-CT-1999-2001), we catalogued a total of 426 species included in 35 genera and seven families and reviewed their present diversity and conservation status. Historical knowledge and geographical information on Plecoptera diversity in Europe are presented. Data on the conservation status of the European stonefly fauna are discussed as well. The whole Plecoptera fauna of lowland rivers in Europe can be considered threatened. The situation is particularly critical for several species, known from a small number of individuals and/or from restricted areas, and that of relict species. Despite this situation, no European Plecoptera species are included on any official lists of threatened species.