Strictly protected beetle species benefits from old tree stands at TU Darmstadt
Darmstadt. The large oak longhorn beetle (Cerambyx cerdo) was spotted in the Botanical Garden of the Technical University of Darmstadt – a beetle species that is critically endangered in Germany and strictly protected throughout Europe. With a body length of up to six centimeters and distinctive, antler-like antennae, it is one of the largest native beetles.
The habitat of this species, which is tied to old oak trees, has shrunk significantly in recent decades. In Germany, the greater oak longhorn beetle is considered critically endangered. The species is strictly protected under the EU Habitats Directive – trapping, killing, disturbance, or destruction of its habitat is prohibited.
"The discovery of this extremely impressive and rare beetle in our Botanical Garden demonstrates how valuable our ancient tree populations are for species conservation," says Professor Simon Poppinga, Scientific Director of the Botanical Garden. The near-natural and meticulously maintained habitats provide a safe haven for an exceptionally high level of biodiversity.
Visitors are asked to report sightings of the beetle to the garden team and not to touch or disturb the animals.
(RED/TUD)
Featured image: TUD
