Rare UK Rainforest Beetles Undertake Lengthy Journeys

Researchers have revealed the blue ground beetle, one of the UK's rarest species, to be quite adventurous and athletic. A new study shows that these beetles sometimes travel distances equivalent to several kilometers a night in search of food and mates.

This elusive creature is mostly found in the fragmented temperate rainforests of south-west England. Little is known about it. However, scientists from the University of Exeter have embarked on a research project investigating how and where they thrive. This study could provide invaluable insight into how organizations such as the Woodland Trust can protect and restore these rare habitats.

Dr. Nick Royle led the study with PhD researcher Brogan Pett. "Blue ground beetles are one of the largest and rarest species of ground beetle in the UK, with a very restricted distribution," Dr. Royle said. Despite their size and rarity, relatively little is known about their biology or the habitat requirements necessary for them to flourish.

To increase understanding of these creatures' behavior patterns, scientists used innovative technology—a "beetle backpack,"  essentially radio trackers placed on 36 insects—which recorded their daily movements within Dartmoor National Park forested habitats.

Brogan Pett observed considerable variance in activity levels among individual beetles: "One male whose tag number was R9 turned out to be a real athlete, traveling over 25 m within the forest each night." Given that beetles are only active during warm, humid evenings for a few months a year (late spring or early summer), this distance translates into an impressive scaled-up equivalent of several kilometers.

Blue ground beetles are not only active travelers but also prefer to avoid border areas within woodland habitats, opting instead for shady areas such as mossy logs or tree cracks for resting during the day.

Sam Manning from The Woodland Trust believes data derived from this project will enable informed decisions concerning management protocols for precious rainforests: "Blue ground beetles are an important indicator of a healthy rainforest here in the southwest, so we can see exactly what is needed for them to thrive and repopulate."

The study has already confirmed that these beetles prefer old-growth temperate rainforests with plenty of decayed deadwood and an abundance of available prey.

The west coast's Atlantic woodland or temperate rainforest is heavily influenced by sea weather. These areas are characterized by high rainfall, humidity levels, and low annual temperature variations. Ancient oak, birch, ash, pine, and hazel woodland make up this unique habitat, which is extremely rare.

To help protect this environment for future generations, The Woodland Trust is forming multi-partner alliances across south-west England as well as Scotland and Wales.

Such research sheds light not only on the fascinating behavior patterns exhibited by one of the UK's rarest beetle species, but also provides vital information for creating more sustainable strategies for preserving their habitats.