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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