Cephalometra pallida D. Polhemus & Ferreira 2018
Authors: Serafim, Ingrid R., Santos, Júlio C. C. V., Ferreira, Rodrigo L.
Type: Taxonomic treatment
Published: 2026-07-20
Keywords: Biodiversity, Taxonomy, Animalia, Arthropoda, Insecta, Hemiptera, Hydrometridae, Cephalometra, Cephalometra pallida

<p><b><i>Cephalometra pallida</i> D. Polhemus & Ferreira, 2018</b></p><p>Fig. 14</p><p><b>Remarks</b></p><p><i>Cephalometra pallida</i> is evidently a rare and elusive species. It is known exclusively from Natividade cave, and despite extensive sampling efforts in other caves throughout the region, it has never been recorded outside this locality (Fig. 14A–B). Moreover, the population appears to be restricted to a single chamber situated in the innermost portion of the cave, which is connected to the phreatic zone.</p><p>The holotype was collected on 15 May 2005, and subsequent surveys failed to detect additional adults for many years (Fig. 14D). Only a single immature specimen was found on 5 May 2013. No individuals were observed on 8 January 2016, and 24 February 2018, only immature specimens were recorded (Fig. 14C). Finally, on 9 June 2025 (after approximately 20 years), adult individuals were detected again.</p><p>Given the sporadic nature of these surveys, it is currently not possible to formulate any robust hypotheses regarding the species’ life cycle. However, considering that the chamber in which the species is observed is relatively small, it is plausible that individuals may migrate to other subterranean compartments during certain periods of the year, possibly in search of more suitable microhabitats.</p><p>As mentioned in the original description of <i>Cephalometra pallida</i>, human-induced alterations are clear in the outermost portions of the cave, particularly near the main entrance. Historical accounts from residents indicate that saltpeter extraction for gunpowder production occurred there until at least the 1940s. This activity has left visible traces, including excavated depressions and patches of burned material in the entrance zone and the first chamber. In contrast, the deeper sections of the cave, where <i>C. pallida</i> specimens are observed, show no indications of past human presence. These inner compartments appear to have remained untouched, suggesting that historical visitors did not venture beyond the accessible entrance areas. As a result, the deeper environment has been preserved in a largely pristine state.</p><p>In contrast, the external habitats surrounding it have undergone significant alteration in recent years, primarily due to forest clearing for pastures and agriculture. Although degraded areas were already evident during our first visit in 2005, the extent of deforestation has increased markedly since then. This trend raises concerns regarding the long-term conservation of the species, as deforestation can lead to sedimentation processes that modify subterranean habitats and reduce the influx of organic matter into the cave, both factors capable of compromising the species’ viability over time.</p><p>Given these threats, systematic monitoring of the population is strongly recommended. Additionally, the creation of a protected area encompassing the limestone outcrop that hosts the cave, together with reforestation of the surrounding landscape, would provide essential safeguards to ensure the persistence of this highly vulnerable species.</p>