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A strictly protected beetle species benefits from old tree stands at TU Darmstadt
Darmstadt. The Great Capricorn Beetle (Cerambyx cerdo) has been sighted in the Botanical Garden of the Technical University of Darmstadt – a beetle species that is highly 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 dependent on old oak trees, has shrunk considerably in recent decades. In Germany, the great capricorn beetle is considered critically endangered. Under the EU's Habitats Directive, the species is strictly protected – trapping, killing, disturbing, or destroying its habitat is prohibited.
“The fact that this exceptionally impressive and rare beetle was found in our Botanical Garden demonstrates how valuable our old-growth trees are for species conservation,” says Professor Simon Poppinga, scientific director of the Botanical Garden. The naturally designed and meticulously maintained habitats offer a safe haven for an exceptionally high level of biodiversity.
Visitors are asked to report any sightings of the beetle to the garden team and not to touch or disturb the animals.
(RED/TUD)
Featured image: TUD
