Bovista graveolens is a rare species closely related to the widely distributed and common look-alike B. nigrescens. Identifications require microscopic verification (spores with curved pedicel in B. graveolens, straight pedicel in B. nigrescens).

Bovista graveolens is a rare species with a sub-continental European distribution. Its currently known population is fragmented A number of localities seem to be out-dated and might have changed considerably due to modern land use. However, its preference for nitrogen-rich habitats may indicate that it is under-recorded in anthropgenous places like urban parks and gardens.

Suggested assessment: VU (C1)

Bovista graveolens is a rare species recorded from Europe, where it has a sub-continental distribution. It might have been overlooked in some areas due to its macromorphological similarities with B. nigrescens. Its currently known populations are fragmented and with only a few individuals on each locality. Some localities are out-dated and may have changed considerably. Records from N. America (Mexico & USA, Oregon) are ambiguous as sequenced specimens (eg KR811089 from Mexico) closely match the common and widespread Bovista nigrescens. These are not included in the current evaluation.

Bovista graveolens is a rare species with an unclear population status. There are less than 80 records world-wide on GBIF, many dating back more than 25 years. It has been reported from appr. 25 localites since the year 2000.

Population is fragmented.

An ongoing population decline is likely due to changing land use (eg forestation, exploitation (roads, buildings). Its ability to grow in stubble fields and urban parks/gardens indicate however a possibility to survive in anthropogenic sites.

Estimated number of localities: 500
Estimated number of functional ind: 1000
Estimated number of mature individuals: 10000

EOO: 4200000 km2
AOO: 116 km2

Bovista graveolens occurs in dry, sandy grazed grasslands as well as in open and warm deciduous woodland. A number of records are from man-made habitats such as stubble fields and wastelands. It seems to be somewhat nitrophilous.

Small and fragmented population.
Modern land management may be detrimental to it, but it can also have been under-recorded due to its macromorphological similarities with B. nigrescens.

Bovista graveolens is currently redlisted in the Czech Republic (EN) and Bulgaria (EN B1ab(iii,iv). Additional countries?

The current distribution and the status of its localities should be further investigated.

None