Old-growth-forest-indicator
Guides
Bolitophagus
Bolitophagus is a genus of darkling beetles (Tenebrionidae) described by Illiger in 1798. The genus occurs across Eurasia and North America. The best-studied species, Bolitophagus reticulatus, is a saproxylic beetle that develops exclusively in fruiting bodies of the wood-decaying fungus Fomes fomentarius.
Brachyopa
Sapeaters
Brachyopa is a Holarctic genus of hoverflies (Syrphidae) characterized by atypical grey and brown coloration that distinguishes them from the typically bright-colored members of their family. These flies are cryptic and easily overlooked among other dipteran families. Larvae develop under bark of dead wood in association with decaying sap, making the genus saproxylic. Adults have been observed feeding on sap flows from wounded trees.
Eucnemis
Eucnemis is a genus of click beetle allies in the family Eucnemidae, established by August Ahrens in 1812. The genus is predominantly Palaearctic in distribution, with at least four described species. Eucnemis capucina, the type species, is a rare cavity-dwelling beetle associated with old hollow trees in deciduous forests. The genus is notable for its saproxylic lifestyle and conservation significance in European forests.
Osmodermatini
Hermit Beetles
Osmodermatini is a tribe of scarab beetles within the subfamily Cetoniinae, commonly known as hermit beetles. The group includes the genus Osmoderma and related taxa, characterized by their association with decaying wood in mature forests. These beetles are of conservation concern in many regions due to habitat loss.
Rosalia
Rosalia longicorn, Alpine longhorn beetle
Rosalia is a genus of longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) established by Audinet-Serville in 1833. The genus includes the iconic Rosalia alpina, known as the Rosalia longicorn or Alpine longhorn beetle, a large and strikingly colored species protected under the European Union Habitats Directive. Members of this genus are associated with beech forests and have experienced significant range contractions across Europe due to habitat loss and forest management practices. The genus is characterized by elongated bodies, long antennae, and often distinctive coloration including blue-gray tones with black spots.