May 10, 2025 • 19 mins
In this Saturday episode of Talking Trees, we take a closer look at the Cerambyx cerdo, also known as the great capricorn beetle—a striking and ecologically significant member of the longhorn beetle family.
We discuss:
- Its scientific classification and broad geographic range across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, with historic extinction noted in the UK
- The beetle’s distinctive appearance, including body size, dark coloration, and the notable difference in antenna length between males and females
- Details of its ecology and life cycle, which spans 3–5 years and involves larval development within damaged wood of oak trees, making it dependent on aging or stressed habitats
- Signs of infestation in host trees and the ecological importance of deadwood habitats for sustaining its population
- Its status as a vulnerable species, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts and habitat protection, particularly in oak-dominated landscapes
The Cerambyx cerdo is more than a curiosity—it’s a reminder of the complex, interdependent lives supported by our oldest trees.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Roger (00:02):
Talking Trees with Lily and Jad.
Welcome to today's episodewhere we will explore a
fascinating beetle, the giantlonghorn beetle Cerambics curdo.
First we'll examine itsappearance, habitat and the
reasons why this species isprotected.
Then we'll dive into thedetails of its biology,
(00:23):
including its life stages,behavior and the plants it
inhabits.
Get ready for an enlighteningjourney into the world of this
extraordinary beetle.
Jad (00:36):
Wow, you guys have really outdone yourselves this time.
The info you sent about theCerambic Cerdo, the great
Capricorn beetle, isunbelievable.
Lilly (00:44):
Yeah, some incredible stuff.
Jad (00:45):
Get ready for a deep dive into these massive beetles.
I mean seriously.
Some of these guys can growover two inches long.
At least that's what I'm seeingfrom these Wikipedia entries
and this specialized databaseentry.
Lilly (01:00):
Right, they can be up to 55 millimeters.
Jad (01:02):
Okay, 55 millimeters.
Lilly (01:03):
Which makes them one of the largest beetle species in.
Jad (01:06):
Europe.
Wow, Two inches long.
I'm starting to see why theycall it the great capricorn
beetle.
That's definitely not somethingI'd want to find crawling on me
.
But hey, size isn't everythingright.
What else makes these beetlesso fascinating?
Lilly (01:18):
Well, their life cycle is particularly interesting.
It's very closely linked to oaktrees.
Jad (01:24):
Okay.
Lilly (01:24):
And it spans a pretty impressive three to five years,
much longer than most beetles.
Jad (01:30):
Hold on Three to five years .
So you're telling me thislittle creature spends years
meticulously crafting thesetunnels within an oak tree?
That's some serious dedication.
Lilly (01:39):
Yeah.
Jad (01:40):
But before we get into all that, let's start with the
basics.
For anyone who needs a quickrefresher, what exactly is
Cerambic Cerdo?
Lilly (01:46):
Well, Cerambic Cerdo belongs to the family
Cerambicidae, which are commonlyknown as longhorn beetles.
Got it and, as we've alreadydiscussed, it's one of the
largest European beetles andit's found across a pretty wide
range spanning North Africa,Europe and parts of Asia.
Jad (02:05):
And don't forget the UK.
Well, they used to live there.
They've since gone extinct.
Imagine there are preservedspecimens dating back 4,000
years.
That's a glimpse into the past,for sure.
But enough about history andsize.
What do these impressivebeetles actually look like?
Lilly (02:16):
Okay, so picture this A beetle with a polished ebony
black body.
Jad (02:21):
Okay, I can see that.
Lilly (02:23):
Now add a touch of sunset to its back.
Its wing covers are tipped witha rich reddish brown.
Jad (02:29):
I can definitely picture that like a tiny armored knight
with a fiery touch.
But I have to ask what's withthose super long antenna on the
males?
They're way longer than thefemales, are they just for show?
Lilly (02:41):
Not at all.
Those antennas are highlysensitive and are designed to
pick up pheromones released bythe females.
Jad (02:47):
Oh, wow.
Lilly (02:48):
So it's all about, you know, maximizing their chances
of finding a mate in a vastforest, you know, especially
when you consider that theirsurvival is tied to specific
host trees.
Jad (02:57):
So it's like a high-tech dating app?
Yeah, but for beetles.
Lilly (03:02):
Exactly.
Jad (03:02):
Are there, like specific types of pheromones, they detect
and do they change depending onthe season or the beetle's age?
Lilly (03:08):
That's a great question.
While we know they usepheromones for mate attraction,
the specifics of the types ofpheromones and how they might
change over time are still areasof active research.
It's a fascinating area ofstudy.
Jad (03:21):
Yeah, it makes you realize how much we still don't know
about even the smallestcreatures.
Right, but seeing the smallcreatures, what about the beetle
larvae?
What are those little woodmunching machines look like?
Lilly (03:32):
Well, the larvae are perhaps less glamorous than the
adults, but they're equallyfascinating.
Imagine like a creamy whitegrub up to 70 millimeters long
spending years of its lifetunneling through the heartwood
of an oak tree.
Jad (03:46):
Wait, 70 millimeters, so they're even bigger than the
adults.
That's one chunky grub.
It makes you wonder how theymanaged to move around inside
those tunnels, right?
But I'm guessing that size iscrucial for their unique life
cycle, right?
Lilly (04:01):
Absolutely yeah.
Their size allows them toconsume a pretty substantial
amount of wood during theirdevelopment and, as we mentioned
earlier, this developmentprocess takes a remarkably long
time.
Jad (04:11):
Right that three to five year life cycle.
That's an incredibly long timefor an insect.
It must be intricately tied totheir relationship with oak
trees, wouldn't you say?
Lilly (04:22):
Absolutely.
Oak trees are essentially for aceramic cerdo.
Females lay their eggs indecaying oak wood.
Jad (04:28):
Okay.
Lilly (04:29):
And the larvae spend years, you know, munching their
way through the wood, creatingelaborate tunnels as they go.
Jad (04:33):
Yeah, so they're essentially recycling the
deadwood right, breaking it down, returning those nutrients to
the forest floor.
Lilly (04:39):
Exactly.
Jad (04:40):
But hold on.
Doesn't that munching also havethe potential to harm living
oak trees?
Lilly (04:46):
Well, that's the paradox.
While Cerambic Cerdo plays avital role in forest ecology by,
you know, breaking downdeadwood, their larval activity
can weaken living oak trees.
Jad (04:57):
I can see, which you know makes them more susceptible to
disease or other stressors.
So it's a delicate balancebetween their role as
decomposers and their potentialimpact on living trees.
It's like they're walking atightrope between benefit and
harm.
It makes you realize that eventhe smallest creatures can have
(05:17):
complex and nuanced roles in theecosystem.
But I'm curious are oak treestheir only target?
Do they ever go for other typesof trees?
Lilly (05:24):
Well, while oaks are their primary hosts, ceramic
serta larvae have been known totarget other deciduous trees as
well.
Jad (05:30):
Okay.
Lilly (05:30):
Including chestnut, hornbeam, plum and maple.
However, oaks remain theirpreferred choice, likely due to
you know, the specificcomposition of the wood and the
availability of suitabledecaying material.
Jad (05:46):
So if I'm out walking in a forest, how can I tell if a tree
has been chosen by theseimpressive beetles?
What are the telltale signs ofa ceramic sort of hangout?
Lilly (05:56):
Okay, so keep an eye out for oval-shaped galleries in the
wood.
Jad (06:00):
Okay.
Lilly (06:01):
Often you know several inches deep, with a reddish
interior Gotcha.
These are the markings of theirlarval tunnels.
You might also noticedefoliation of the tree.
You know as the larvae feed onthe phloem and sap, disrupting
the tree's nutrient transport.
Jad (06:16):
Fascinating.
So it's like a detective gamesearching for clues to uncover
the secret lives of thesebeetles.
Like a detective game searchingfor clues to uncover the secret
lives of these beetles, butknowing that their life cycle is
so closely tied to specifictrees, you know I can't help but
think about the threats theymight face.
Habitat loss must be a majorconcern, right.
Lilly (06:29):
You're spot on.
Ceramic cerdo is consideredvulnerable on the IUCN Red List,
which means they face a highrisk of extinction in the wild.
Habitat loss and degradationare the primary culprits, you
know, as forests are cleared fordevelopment, agriculture and
other land uses.
Jad (06:45):
That's.
That's worrying to hear.
It sounds like understandingtheir life cycle and host plants
is crucial for conservationefforts, wouldn't you say?
Lilly (06:54):
Absolutely.
By learning more about thegreat Capricorn beetle, we gain,
you know, valuable insightsinto the delicate balance they
play in forest ecosystems, andthis knowledge is essential for
developing effectiveconservation strategies to
protect our future.
But we've only just begun toscratch the surface of this
remarkable beetle story.
(07:15):
There's so much more todiscover, from their role as an
indicator species to theirsurprising relationship with a
certain type of fungus.
Jad (07:22):
Okay, now you've got me.
Now you've got me reallycurious.
An indicator, species and afungal connection.
Tell me more.
Lilly (07:29):
It's fascinating.
You know how the Cerambic Cerdoacts as an indicator species.
Jad (07:33):
Okay.
Lilly (07:34):
Its presence or absence, or even its abundance, can tell
us a lot about the health of theecosystem.
Jad (07:39):
An indicator species like a flashing neon sign.
Lilly (07:43):
Exactly.
Jad (07:44):
But in this case the sign is a beetle Right.
So what makes them such goodindicators?
Lilly (07:48):
Well, they're particularly sensitive to
changes in their environment.
Jad (07:52):
Okay.
Lilly (07:53):
Especially the availability of old growth oak
trees.
Think of them kind of like thecanaries in the coal mine.
Jad (07:59):
Okay.
Lilly (08:00):
For these forests.
If we see a thriving populationof Cerambic Cerdo, you know it
suggests that we've got ahealthy forest.
Jad (08:08):
Okay.
Lilly (08:09):
With a good supply of mature decaying oaks.
Jad (08:13):
But I imagine there's a tipping point right.
Like too many beetles couldactually, you know, spill
trouble for the trees.
Lilly (08:18):
Precisely, it's a delicate balance, you know,
spill trouble for the trees.
Precisely it's a delicatebalance.
If the beetle population, youknow, explodes, it could damage
too many trees and that coulddisrupt the forest's equilibrium
.
That's why monitoring theirnumbers is so crucial.
Jad (08:30):
Okay.
Lilly (08:30):
That helps us to you know , understand the bigger picture.
Jad (08:32):
Gotcha.
Lilly (08:33):
And make informed decisions about conservation
strategies.
Jad (08:36):
So monitoring is key, yeah, but what about about, like,
active conservation efforts?
Are there any programs in placespecifically designed to
protect these beetles and theirhabitat?
Lilly (08:49):
Yeah, absolutely.
Several European countries haveimplemented conservation
programs that focus onprotecting and managing oak
forests.
Some of them involve creatingprotected areas where activities
like logging, which could harmceramic cerdo habitat, are
restricted.
Jad (09:06):
Protected areas, like a sanctuary for the beetles and
the trees.
Lilly (09:10):
Yeah.
Jad (09:11):
Tell me more about those Like how do those work?
What other strategies are theyusing to help these guys thrive?
Lilly (09:15):
Well, some other programs focus on promoting sustainable
forestry practices to ensure ahealthy balance of old and young
trees, and this includes, youknow, leaving deadwood standing
or on the forest floor because,as we know, that's essential
habitat for our, you know,little excavator friends.
Jad (09:32):
Right.
Those chunky grubs need theirspace to munch.
It's amazing how something, asyou know, as simple as leaving
deadwood can make such adifference.
It's a reminder that even thesmallest actions can have a big
impact.
Lilly (09:46):
Exactly, and it's not just about the beetles Leaving
deadwood benefits a whole rangeof other insects, fungi, even
birds and small mammals.
It's all interconnected.
So protecting one species oftenbenefits many others and it
creates kind of a ripple effectof positive impacts throughout
the entire ecosystem.
Jad (10:03):
Like a chain reaction of good deeds.
It really highlights theinterconnectedness of everything
in nature.
You mentioned something about afungal connection.
What's that all about?
Lilly (10:14):
Well, it turns out that Cerambic Cerdo has a unique
relationship with a fascinatingfungus called Pleurotus eringi,
also known as the king oystermushroom.
Jad (10:23):
The king oyster mushroom.
That sounds delicious, butwhat's a mushroom doing hanging
out with the beetle?
Lilly (10:28):
Well, this particular mushroom is often found growing
on decaying oak trees, the sametrees where Cerambic cerdo
larvae, you know, spend theirtime munching away.
Jad (10:38):
So both the beetle larvae and the fungus are like drawn to
the same type of wood.
Lilly (10:42):
Right.
Jad (10:43):
But is it just a coincidence, or is there
something, something more goingon?
Lilly (10:47):
It's definitely more than a coincidence.
Researchers believe that thefungus actually helps the beetle
larvae digest that tough oakwood.
Jad (10:55):
Wait, so the fungus helps the larvae eat the wood.
Yeah, how does that work?
That's mind-blowing.
So it's a mutually beneficialrelationship then.
Lilly (11:04):
It appears so.
Jad (11:05):
A win-win for both parties.
Lilly (11:07):
Yeah, the fungus gets a cozy pre-made habitat thanks to
the beetle larvae's tunnelingefforts.
Jad (11:13):
Okay.
Lilly (11:13):
And the larvae get digestive assistance from the
fungus, which makes theirwood-munching lives a little bit
easier.
It's a perfect example ofsymbiosis in nature.
Jad (11:23):
It's incredible how nature finds these.
You know ingenious ways ordifferent species to cooperate
to support each other.
It's a reminder that there'salways more to learn.
You know even about creatures.
We think we know, but I'mguessing there's still more
secrets to uncover, right?
Lilly (11:40):
Absolutely.
You know we've covered a lot ofground, from their basic
biology and life cycle, theircrucial role in the ecosystem,
the threats they face and eventheir intriguing symbiotic
relationship with the kingoyster mushroom.
But there's one more layer toexplore the impact of climate
change Climate change theelephant in the room for so many
species these days.
Jad (11:58):
Climate change the elephant in the room for so many species
these days.
How do you think risingtemperatures and changing
weather patterns might affectyou know, affect these beetles
and their oak forest homes inthe future?
Lilly (12:09):
Yeah, that's a really important question.
Climate change, you know it haspotential to really disrupt
ecosystems in countless ways.
And Cerambic, cerdo and theiroak forest habitats are.
You know they're not immune tothose changes.
Jad (12:25):
Yeah, it's, it's like a domino effect.
Yeah, one change, sugarsanother, and it's it's hard, to
hard to predict the full impact.
So what?
What specific challenges mightthese beetles face as the as the
climate shifts?
Lilly (12:38):
Well, for starters, rising temperatures could affect
, you know, the timing of thebeetle's life cycle.
Remember those larvae spendyears developing inside those
oak trees.
Right Changes in temperaturecould really throw off that
delicate timing, you know,disrupting their emergence as
adults or impacting theirability to reproduce.
Jad (12:58):
It's like messing with the internal clock of the entire
forest and I imagine you knowchanges in rainfall patterns
could also play a role.
Lilly (13:05):
Absolutely.
Oak trees are very sensitive todrought and as climate change
kind of alters thoseprecipitation patterns, those
trees, they may become stressed.
You know.
Jad (13:14):
Which makes them more susceptible to disease or, you
know, less suitable as hosts forthe beetles.
Lilly (13:20):
It's like a double whammy for the beetles their home is
being threatened and their foodsource is compromised.
Jad (13:26):
Against that.
Lilly (13:28):
But it doesn't end there, does it?
Climate change can also impactthe spread of diseases and pests
.
Jad (13:33):
You're exactly right.
Warmer temperatures can createmuch more favorable conditions
for the spread of fungalpathogens or insect pests that
could harm both the oak treesand the beetles themselves.
Lilly (13:48):
So it's a multifaceted threat with cascading
consequences.
It makes you realize theurgency of addressing climate
change, not just for the sake ofceramic sirtu, but for the
entire web of life that dependson these forests.
Jad (14:02):
So what can be done?
What steps can we take to helpthese beetles weather the
climate storm?
Lilly (14:08):
Well, continuing research and monitoring is essential.
We need to understand howclimate change is affecting the
beetles and their habitat so wecan develop much more targeted
conservation strategies.
Jad (14:22):
It's like gathering intel for a rescue mission.
Lilly (14:24):
Right.
Jad (14:26):
But beyond research, what about on-the-ground actions?
Lilly (14:29):
Well.
Protecting and restoringexisting oak forests is crucial.
This includes promotingsustainable forestry practices
that really prioritize thehealth and resilience of these
ecosystems.
The health and resilience ofthese ecosystems.
Jad (14:42):
Right, making sure that those forests are strong enough
to withstand the pressures of achanging climate.
Lilly (14:48):
Exactly.
Jad (14:51):
But what about those areas where forests have already been
lost or fragmented?
Lilly (14:55):
Well, that's where restoration comes in.
You know, planting new oaktrees, creating corridors to
connect fragmented forests,working to improve the overall
health of the landscape, theseactions can create much more
resilient habitats for thebeetles.
Jad (15:13):
It's like giving them a fighting chance in a world
that's increasingly challenging.
It's a reminder that even inthe face of climate change,
there's hope.
You know, we can make adifference if we, if we act now
and and work together.
Lilly (15:28):
I could agree more.
You know it's about takingaction.
Jad (15:30):
Yeah.
Lilly (15:30):
Both individually and collectively to to protect this
incredible biodiversity of ourplanet.
And speaking of biodiversity,you know we've talked a lot
about the ecological importanceof ceramic cerdo, but, but I'm
curious do they have anycultural significance?
Have they popped up in art orliterature?
Jad (15:49):
That's a great question.
It makes you wonder how thesebeetles have woven their way
into human history and culture.
Have they inspired any myths orlegends.
Lilly (15:58):
Well, while I haven't found any specific examples of
ceramic Serto, you know starringin famous paintings or novels,
longhorn Beatles in general dohold symbolic meaning in some
cultures.
Jad (16:10):
Oh, intriguing.
What kind of symbolism are wetalking about?
Lilly (16:13):
Well, in some cultures they're seen as symbols of, you
know, of strength andperseverance, because of their
powerful jaws and their abilityto survive in harsh conditions.
Jad (16:25):
Like the tiny but mighty champions of the insect world.
Lilly (16:28):
Exactly.
Jad (16:29):
And those mandibles are no joke, and those long antennas,
especially on the male CerambicCerdo.
It makes you think ofsensitivity and perception.
Lilly (16:39):
Exactly.
And their presence in folkloreand traditional beliefs, you
know, across their range, reallyshows how these beetles have
captured, you know, captured thehuman imagination for centuries
.
Some cultures even associatethem with transformation and
rebirth, you know, linking themto the cycle of decay and
renewal in nature.
Jad (16:59):
That's beautiful.
It ties in perfectly with theirrole as decomposers in the
forest ecosystem.
You know they break down theold to make way for the new.
Lilly (17:11):
It's a reminder that even the smallest creatures can have
a really profound impact on ourculture and our understanding
of the world around us.
You know, they inspire us, theychallenge us and they remind us
of the interconnectedness ofall living things.
Jad (17:26):
Well said.
It seems like ceramic Cercertois more than just a beetle it's
a symbol of resilience, areminder of the intricate
balance of nature and anambassador for the importance of
conservation.
I think it's safe to say ourlistener has walked away from
this deep dive with a newfoundappreciation for this remarkable
(17:46):
insect.
Lilly (17:47):
Yeah, I think they've definitely gotten a
comprehensive overview.
We've covered everything fromtheir basic biology and
fascinating life cycle to theircrucial role in the ecosystem,
the threats they face and eventheir cultural significance.
Jad (18:01):
We've really explored every nook and cranny of the ceramic
sort of world.
But before we wrap things up, Iwant to leave our listener with
one final thought to ponder.
We've talked about the threatsfacing these beetles, from
habitat loss to climate change,but I think it's important to
remember that that there's stillhope.
But I think it's important toremember that, that there's
still hope yeah.
(18:22):
By understanding thesechallenges and taking action, we
can help ensure the survival ofthis incredible species and the
ecosystems that they call home.
Perhaps there are localconservation organizations in
your area working to protectceramic, cerdo and oak forests.
Why not reach out and see howyou can get involved?
(18:43):
Every action, no matter howsmall, can make a difference.
Lilly (18:47):
That's a wonderful call to action.
You know, knowledge is powerand by sharing what we've
learned about Cerambic Cerdotoday, we hope to inspire our
listener to become an advocatefor the conservation of this
remarkable species and thedelicate balance of our planet.
Jad (19:02):
Well said To our listener.
Thank you for joining us onthis deep dive into the
fascinating world of the greatCapricorn beetle.
We hope you've enjoyed thejourney and learned something
new along the way.
Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious and remember
every action counts.
Roger (19:22):
Thank you for joining us on this journey into the world
of the giant longhorn beetle,cerambix curdo.
We hope you gained a deeperappreciation for its unique
features, habitat and theimportance of protecting this
remarkable species.
Until next time, keepdiscovering and appreciating the
amazing creatures that shareour planet.
Talking Trees with Lily and Jad.
Welcome to today's episodewhere we will explore a
fascinating beetle, the giantlonghorn beetle Cerambics curdo.
First we'll examine itsappearance, habitat and the
reasons why this species isprotected.
Then we'll dive into thedetails of its biology,
(00:23):
including its life stages,behavior and the plants it
inhabits.
Get ready for an enlighteningjourney into the world of this
extraordinary beetle.
Jad (00:36):
Wow, you guys have really outdone yourselves this time.
The info you sent about theCerambic Cerdo, the great
Capricorn beetle, isunbelievable.
Lilly (00:44):
Yeah, some incredible stuff.
Jad (00:45):
Get ready for a deep dive into these massive beetles.
I mean seriously.
Some of these guys can growover two inches long.
At least that's what I'm seeingfrom these Wikipedia entries
and this specialized databaseentry.
Lilly (01:00):
Right, they can be up to 55 millimeters.
Jad (01:02):
Okay, 55 millimeters.
Lilly (01:03):
Which makes them one of the largest beetle species in.
Jad (01:06):
Europe.
Wow, Two inches long.
I'm starting to see why theycall it the great capricorn
beetle.
That's definitely not somethingI'd want to find crawling on me
.
But hey, size isn't everythingright.
What else makes these beetlesso fascinating?
Lilly (01:18):
Well, their life cycle is particularly interesting.
It's very closely linked to oaktrees.
Jad (01:24):
Okay.
Lilly (01:24):
And it spans a pretty impressive three to five years,
much longer than most beetles.
Jad (01:30):
Hold on Three to five years .
So you're telling me thislittle creature spends years
meticulously crafting thesetunnels within an oak tree?
That's some serious dedication.
Lilly (01:39):
Yeah.
Jad (01:40):
But before we get into all that, let's start with the
basics.
For anyone who needs a quickrefresher, what exactly is
Cerambic Cerdo?
Lilly (01:46):
Well, Cerambic Cerdo belongs to the family
Cerambicidae, which are commonlyknown as longhorn beetles.
Got it and, as we've alreadydiscussed, it's one of the
largest European beetles andit's found across a pretty wide
range spanning North Africa,Europe and parts of Asia.
Jad (02:05):
And don't forget the UK.
Well, they used to live there.
They've since gone extinct.
Imagine there are preservedspecimens dating back 4,000
years.
That's a glimpse into the past,for sure.
But enough about history andsize.
What do these impressivebeetles actually look like?
Lilly (02:16):
Okay, so picture this A beetle with a polished ebony
black body.
Jad (02:21):
Okay, I can see that.
Lilly (02:23):
Now add a touch of sunset to its back.
Its wing covers are tipped witha rich reddish brown.
Jad (02:29):
I can definitely picture that like a tiny armored knight
with a fiery touch.
But I have to ask what's withthose super long antenna on the
males?
They're way longer than thefemales, are they just for show?
Lilly (02:41):
Not at all.
Those antennas are highlysensitive and are designed to
pick up pheromones released bythe females.
Jad (02:47):
Oh, wow.
Lilly (02:48):
So it's all about, you know, maximizing their chances
of finding a mate in a vastforest, you know, especially
when you consider that theirsurvival is tied to specific
host trees.
Jad (02:57):
So it's like a high-tech dating app?
Yeah, but for beetles.
Lilly (03:02):
Exactly.
Jad (03:02):
Are there, like specific types of pheromones, they detect
and do they change depending onthe season or the beetle's age?
Lilly (03:08):
That's a great question.
While we know they usepheromones for mate attraction,
the specifics of the types ofpheromones and how they might
change over time are still areasof active research.
It's a fascinating area ofstudy.
Jad (03:21):
Yeah, it makes you realize how much we still don't know
about even the smallestcreatures.
Right, but seeing the smallcreatures, what about the beetle
larvae?
What are those little woodmunching machines look like?
Lilly (03:32):
Well, the larvae are perhaps less glamorous than the
adults, but they're equallyfascinating.
Imagine like a creamy whitegrub up to 70 millimeters long
spending years of its lifetunneling through the heartwood
of an oak tree.
Jad (03:46):
Wait, 70 millimeters, so they're even bigger than the
adults.
That's one chunky grub.
It makes you wonder how theymanaged to move around inside
those tunnels, right?
But I'm guessing that size iscrucial for their unique life
cycle, right?
Lilly (04:01):
Absolutely yeah.
Their size allows them toconsume a pretty substantial
amount of wood during theirdevelopment and, as we mentioned
earlier, this developmentprocess takes a remarkably long
time.
Jad (04:11):
Right that three to five year life cycle.
That's an incredibly long timefor an insect.
It must be intricately tied totheir relationship with oak
trees, wouldn't you say?
Lilly (04:22):
Absolutely.
Oak trees are essentially for aceramic cerdo.
Females lay their eggs indecaying oak wood.
Jad (04:28):
Okay.
Lilly (04:29):
And the larvae spend years, you know, munching their
way through the wood, creatingelaborate tunnels as they go.
Jad (04:33):
Yeah, so they're essentially recycling the
deadwood right, breaking it down, returning those nutrients to
the forest floor.
Lilly (04:39):
Exactly.
Jad (04:40):
But hold on.
Doesn't that munching also havethe potential to harm living
oak trees?
Lilly (04:46):
Well, that's the paradox.
While Cerambic Cerdo plays avital role in forest ecology by,
you know, breaking downdeadwood, their larval activity
can weaken living oak trees.
Jad (04:57):
I can see, which you know makes them more susceptible to
disease or other stressors.
So it's a delicate balancebetween their role as
decomposers and their potentialimpact on living trees.
It's like they're walking atightrope between benefit and
harm.
It makes you realize that eventhe smallest creatures can have
(05:17):
complex and nuanced roles in theecosystem.
But I'm curious are oak treestheir only target?
Do they ever go for other typesof trees?
Lilly (05:24):
Well, while oaks are their primary hosts, ceramic
serta larvae have been known totarget other deciduous trees as
well.
Jad (05:30):
Okay.
Lilly (05:30):
Including chestnut, hornbeam, plum and maple.
However, oaks remain theirpreferred choice, likely due to
you know, the specificcomposition of the wood and the
availability of suitabledecaying material.
Jad (05:46):
So if I'm out walking in a forest, how can I tell if a tree
has been chosen by theseimpressive beetles?
What are the telltale signs ofa ceramic sort of hangout?
Lilly (05:56):
Okay, so keep an eye out for oval-shaped galleries in the
wood.
Jad (06:00):
Okay.
Lilly (06:01):
Often you know several inches deep, with a reddish
interior Gotcha.
These are the markings of theirlarval tunnels.
You might also noticedefoliation of the tree.
You know as the larvae feed onthe phloem and sap, disrupting
the tree's nutrient transport.
Jad (06:16):
Fascinating.
So it's like a detective gamesearching for clues to uncover
the secret lives of thesebeetles.
Like a detective game searchingfor clues to uncover the secret
lives of these beetles, butknowing that their life cycle is
so closely tied to specifictrees, you know I can't help but
think about the threats theymight face.
Habitat loss must be a majorconcern, right.
Lilly (06:29):
You're spot on.
Ceramic cerdo is consideredvulnerable on the IUCN Red List,
which means they face a highrisk of extinction in the wild.
Habitat loss and degradationare the primary culprits, you
know, as forests are cleared fordevelopment, agriculture and
other land uses.
Jad (06:45):
That's.
That's worrying to hear.
It sounds like understandingtheir life cycle and host plants
is crucial for conservationefforts, wouldn't you say?
Lilly (06:54):
Absolutely.
By learning more about thegreat Capricorn beetle, we gain,
you know, valuable insightsinto the delicate balance they
play in forest ecosystems, andthis knowledge is essential for
developing effectiveconservation strategies to
protect our future.
But we've only just begun toscratch the surface of this
remarkable beetle story.
(07:15):
There's so much more todiscover, from their role as an
indicator species to theirsurprising relationship with a
certain type of fungus.
Jad (07:22):
Okay, now you've got me.
Now you've got me reallycurious.
An indicator, species and afungal connection.
Tell me more.
Lilly (07:29):
It's fascinating.
You know how the Cerambic Cerdoacts as an indicator species.
Jad (07:33):
Okay.
Lilly (07:34):
Its presence or absence, or even its abundance, can tell
us a lot about the health of theecosystem.
Jad (07:39):
An indicator species like a flashing neon sign.
Lilly (07:43):
Exactly.
Jad (07:44):
But in this case the sign is a beetle Right.
So what makes them such goodindicators?
Lilly (07:48):
Well, they're particularly sensitive to
changes in their environment.
Jad (07:52):
Okay.
Lilly (07:53):
Especially the availability of old growth oak
trees.
Think of them kind of like thecanaries in the coal mine.
Jad (07:59):
Okay.
Lilly (08:00):
For these forests.
If we see a thriving populationof Cerambic Cerdo, you know it
suggests that we've got ahealthy forest.
Jad (08:08):
Okay.
Lilly (08:09):
With a good supply of mature decaying oaks.
Jad (08:13):
But I imagine there's a tipping point right.
Like too many beetles couldactually, you know, spill
trouble for the trees.
Lilly (08:18):
Precisely, it's a delicate balance, you know,
spill trouble for the trees.
Precisely it's a delicatebalance.
If the beetle population, youknow, explodes, it could damage
too many trees and that coulddisrupt the forest's equilibrium
.
That's why monitoring theirnumbers is so crucial.
Jad (08:30):
Okay.
Lilly (08:30):
That helps us to you know , understand the bigger picture.
Jad (08:32):
Gotcha.
Lilly (08:33):
And make informed decisions about conservation
strategies.
Jad (08:36):
So monitoring is key, yeah, but what about about, like,
active conservation efforts?
Are there any programs in placespecifically designed to
protect these beetles and theirhabitat?
Lilly (08:49):
Yeah, absolutely.
Several European countries haveimplemented conservation
programs that focus onprotecting and managing oak
forests.
Some of them involve creatingprotected areas where activities
like logging, which could harmceramic cerdo habitat, are
restricted.
Jad (09:06):
Protected areas, like a sanctuary for the beetles and
the trees.
Lilly (09:10):
Yeah.
Jad (09:11):
Tell me more about those Like how do those work?
What other strategies are theyusing to help these guys thrive?
Lilly (09:15):
Well, some other programs focus on promoting sustainable
forestry practices to ensure ahealthy balance of old and young
trees, and this includes, youknow, leaving deadwood standing
or on the forest floor because,as we know, that's essential
habitat for our, you know,little excavator friends.
Jad (09:32):
Right.
Those chunky grubs need theirspace to munch.
It's amazing how something, asyou know, as simple as leaving
deadwood can make such adifference.
It's a reminder that even thesmallest actions can have a big
impact.
Lilly (09:46):
Exactly, and it's not just about the beetles Leaving
deadwood benefits a whole rangeof other insects, fungi, even
birds and small mammals.
It's all interconnected.
So protecting one species oftenbenefits many others and it
creates kind of a ripple effectof positive impacts throughout
the entire ecosystem.
Jad (10:03):
Like a chain reaction of good deeds.
It really highlights theinterconnectedness of everything
in nature.
You mentioned something about afungal connection.
What's that all about?
Lilly (10:14):
Well, it turns out that Cerambic Cerdo has a unique
relationship with a fascinatingfungus called Pleurotus eringi,
also known as the king oystermushroom.
Jad (10:23):
The king oyster mushroom.
That sounds delicious, butwhat's a mushroom doing hanging
out with the beetle?
Lilly (10:28):
Well, this particular mushroom is often found growing
on decaying oak trees, the sametrees where Cerambic cerdo
larvae, you know, spend theirtime munching away.
Jad (10:38):
So both the beetle larvae and the fungus are like drawn to
the same type of wood.
Lilly (10:42):
Right.
Jad (10:43):
But is it just a coincidence, or is there
something, something more goingon?
Lilly (10:47):
It's definitely more than a coincidence.
Researchers believe that thefungus actually helps the beetle
larvae digest that tough oakwood.
Jad (10:55):
Wait, so the fungus helps the larvae eat the wood.
Yeah, how does that work?
That's mind-blowing.
So it's a mutually beneficialrelationship then.
Lilly (11:04):
It appears so.
Jad (11:05):
A win-win for both parties.
Lilly (11:07):
Yeah, the fungus gets a cozy pre-made habitat thanks to
the beetle larvae's tunnelingefforts.
Jad (11:13):
Okay.
Lilly (11:13):
And the larvae get digestive assistance from the
fungus, which makes theirwood-munching lives a little bit
easier.
It's a perfect example ofsymbiosis in nature.
Jad (11:23):
It's incredible how nature finds these.
You know ingenious ways ordifferent species to cooperate
to support each other.
It's a reminder that there'salways more to learn.
You know even about creatures.
We think we know, but I'mguessing there's still more
secrets to uncover, right?
Lilly (11:40):
Absolutely.
You know we've covered a lot ofground, from their basic
biology and life cycle, theircrucial role in the ecosystem,
the threats they face and eventheir intriguing symbiotic
relationship with the kingoyster mushroom.
But there's one more layer toexplore the impact of climate
change Climate change theelephant in the room for so many
species these days.
Jad (11:58):
Climate change the elephant in the room for so many species
these days.
How do you think risingtemperatures and changing
weather patterns might affectyou know, affect these beetles
and their oak forest homes inthe future?
Lilly (12:09):
Yeah, that's a really important question.
Climate change, you know it haspotential to really disrupt
ecosystems in countless ways.
And Cerambic, cerdo and theiroak forest habitats are.
You know they're not immune tothose changes.
Jad (12:25):
Yeah, it's, it's like a domino effect.
Yeah, one change, sugarsanother, and it's it's hard, to
hard to predict the full impact.
So what?
What specific challenges mightthese beetles face as the as the
climate shifts?
Lilly (12:38):
Well, for starters, rising temperatures could affect
, you know, the timing of thebeetle's life cycle.
Remember those larvae spendyears developing inside those
oak trees.
Right Changes in temperaturecould really throw off that
delicate timing, you know,disrupting their emergence as
adults or impacting theirability to reproduce.
Jad (12:58):
It's like messing with the internal clock of the entire
forest and I imagine you knowchanges in rainfall patterns
could also play a role.
Lilly (13:05):
Absolutely.
Oak trees are very sensitive todrought and as climate change
kind of alters thoseprecipitation patterns, those
trees, they may become stressed.
You know.
Jad (13:14):
Which makes them more susceptible to disease or, you
know, less suitable as hosts forthe beetles.
Lilly (13:20):
It's like a double whammy for the beetles their home is
being threatened and their foodsource is compromised.
Jad (13:26):
Against that.
Lilly (13:28):
But it doesn't end there, does it?
Climate change can also impactthe spread of diseases and pests
.
Jad (13:33):
You're exactly right.
Warmer temperatures can createmuch more favorable conditions
for the spread of fungalpathogens or insect pests that
could harm both the oak treesand the beetles themselves.
Lilly (13:48):
So it's a multifaceted threat with cascading
consequences.
It makes you realize theurgency of addressing climate
change, not just for the sake ofceramic sirtu, but for the
entire web of life that dependson these forests.
Jad (14:02):
So what can be done?
What steps can we take to helpthese beetles weather the
climate storm?
Lilly (14:08):
Well, continuing research and monitoring is essential.
We need to understand howclimate change is affecting the
beetles and their habitat so wecan develop much more targeted
conservation strategies.
Jad (14:22):
It's like gathering intel for a rescue mission.
Lilly (14:24):
Right.
Jad (14:26):
But beyond research, what about on-the-ground actions?
Lilly (14:29):
Well.
Protecting and restoringexisting oak forests is crucial.
This includes promotingsustainable forestry practices
that really prioritize thehealth and resilience of these
ecosystems.
The health and resilience ofthese ecosystems.
Jad (14:42):
Right, making sure that those forests are strong enough
to withstand the pressures of achanging climate.
Lilly (14:48):
Exactly.
Jad (14:51):
But what about those areas where forests have already been
lost or fragmented?
Lilly (14:55):
Well, that's where restoration comes in.
You know, planting new oaktrees, creating corridors to
connect fragmented forests,working to improve the overall
health of the landscape, theseactions can create much more
resilient habitats for thebeetles.
Jad (15:13):
It's like giving them a fighting chance in a world
that's increasingly challenging.
It's a reminder that even inthe face of climate change,
there's hope.
You know, we can make adifference if we, if we act now
and and work together.
Lilly (15:28):
I could agree more.
You know it's about takingaction.
Jad (15:30):
Yeah.
Lilly (15:30):
Both individually and collectively to to protect this
incredible biodiversity of ourplanet.
And speaking of biodiversity,you know we've talked a lot
about the ecological importanceof ceramic cerdo, but, but I'm
curious do they have anycultural significance?
Have they popped up in art orliterature?
Jad (15:49):
That's a great question.
It makes you wonder how thesebeetles have woven their way
into human history and culture.
Have they inspired any myths orlegends.
Lilly (15:58):
Well, while I haven't found any specific examples of
ceramic Serto, you know starringin famous paintings or novels,
longhorn Beatles in general dohold symbolic meaning in some
cultures.
Jad (16:10):
Oh, intriguing.
What kind of symbolism are wetalking about?
Lilly (16:13):
Well, in some cultures they're seen as symbols of, you
know, of strength andperseverance, because of their
powerful jaws and their abilityto survive in harsh conditions.
Jad (16:25):
Like the tiny but mighty champions of the insect world.
Lilly (16:28):
Exactly.
Jad (16:29):
And those mandibles are no joke, and those long antennas,
especially on the male CerambicCerdo.
It makes you think ofsensitivity and perception.
Lilly (16:39):
Exactly.
And their presence in folkloreand traditional beliefs, you
know, across their range, reallyshows how these beetles have
captured, you know, captured thehuman imagination for centuries
.
Some cultures even associatethem with transformation and
rebirth, you know, linking themto the cycle of decay and
renewal in nature.
Jad (16:59):
That's beautiful.
It ties in perfectly with theirrole as decomposers in the
forest ecosystem.
You know they break down theold to make way for the new.
Lilly (17:11):
It's a reminder that even the smallest creatures can have
a really profound impact on ourculture and our understanding
of the world around us.
You know, they inspire us, theychallenge us and they remind us
of the interconnectedness ofall living things.
Jad (17:26):
Well said.
It seems like ceramic Cercertois more than just a beetle it's
a symbol of resilience, areminder of the intricate
balance of nature and anambassador for the importance of
conservation.
I think it's safe to say ourlistener has walked away from
this deep dive with a newfoundappreciation for this remarkable
(17:46):
insect.
Lilly (17:47):
Yeah, I think they've definitely gotten a
comprehensive overview.
We've covered everything fromtheir basic biology and
fascinating life cycle to theircrucial role in the ecosystem,
the threats they face and eventheir cultural significance.
Jad (18:01):
We've really explored every nook and cranny of the ceramic
sort of world.
But before we wrap things up, Iwant to leave our listener with
one final thought to ponder.
We've talked about the threatsfacing these beetles, from
habitat loss to climate change,but I think it's important to
remember that that there's stillhope.
But I think it's important toremember that, that there's
still hope yeah.
(18:22):
By understanding thesechallenges and taking action, we
can help ensure the survival ofthis incredible species and the
ecosystems that they call home.
Perhaps there are localconservation organizations in
your area working to protectceramic, cerdo and oak forests.
Why not reach out and see howyou can get involved?
(18:43):
Every action, no matter howsmall, can make a difference.
Lilly (18:47):
That's a wonderful call to action.
You know, knowledge is powerand by sharing what we've
learned about Cerambic Cerdotoday, we hope to inspire our
listener to become an advocatefor the conservation of this
remarkable species and thedelicate balance of our planet.
Jad (19:02):
Well said To our listener.
Thank you for joining us onthis deep dive into the
fascinating world of the greatCapricorn beetle.
We hope you've enjoyed thejourney and learned something
new along the way.
Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious and remember
every action counts.
Roger (19:22):
Thank you for joining us on this journey into the world
of the giant longhorn beetle,cerambix curdo.
We hope you gained a deeperappreciation for its unique
features, habitat and theimportance of protecting this
remarkable species.
Until next time, keepdiscovering and appreciating the
amazing creatures that shareour planet.
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