Scarlet Waxcap Added to IUCN Red List as 'Vulnerable'

The global assessment reveals one-third of evaluated fungal species are threatened, spotlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.

The Scarlet Waxcap (Hygrocybe intermedia) has been officially added to the IUCN Red List under the 'vulnerable' category.
This species is already classified as endangered in Germany due to habitat loss from urban, industrial, and agricultural expansion.
Fungi globally face significant threats, with deforestation and nutrient runoff identified as key drivers of habitat destruction.
The IUCN's assessment evaluated 1,300 of 155,000 known fungal species, finding that one-third are at risk of extinction.
Fungi play a critical ecological role by recycling nutrients and supporting biodiversity, yet remain underrepresented in conservation efforts.