Rare beetle sensation: Great pupa predator returns after 100 years!

Rare beetle sensation: Great pupa predator returns after 100 years!

In an exciting natural event, nature lovers and scientists in southern Bavaria reported a find that should make the hearts of insect lovers beat faster. The large pupa predator (Calosoma sycophanta), a rare beetle from the ground beetle family, has been spotted in the region again after over 100 years. Particularly noteworthy are the reports that come primarily from Munich, Bogenhausen and Moosach as well as from the surrounding cities of Freising and Landshut. According to Bavarian State Institute for Forestry and Forestry, this find has now been confirmed by photo evidence.

But what exactly makes this beetle so special? The large pupal predator primarily eats caterpillars of moths and thus plays an important role as a beneficial insect. As the number of moth species increases due to climate change, problems for oak trees could also increase. These beetles are a small source of hope, as a single large pupal predator eats an astonishing 400 caterpillars per season!

A beetle with a story

The last documented sighting of the large pupal robber in southern Bavaria dates back to 1906. The return of this remarkable beetle could be due, among other things, to global warming, which offers it a suitable habitat. The little pupa robber (Calosoma inquisitor), despite its rarity in southern Bavaria, could also benefit from these changes. Historically, there is evidence of this species in the Danube Valley on the border with Austria.

The Great Pupal Robber is not only striking, but also has an impressive appearance: its body length varies between 17.5 and 28 millimeters, and its coloration can range from blue-black to golden-green and even slightly reddish. The longitudinally grooved cover wings, which can vary in color, are striking - a true natural work of art.

Ecological significance

Beetles, and especially the large pupal predator, make a crucial contribution to a healthy ecosystem. They populate almost all habitats on earth and take on different roles in the natural balance. As predators, they not only eat pests, but their larvae do the same. Proof of how important the preservation of such beneficial organisms is for biological pest control. Other useful beetle species are also currently very popular, such as ladybirds, which eat up to 40,000 aphids during their lifetime.

The Bavarian State Institute for Forestry and Forestry has invited citizens to report sightings of the great puppet robber, particularly with images and exact locations. This could help to better understand and possibly protect the population of this endangered species.

The Palette of Puppet Robbers

The pronotum is an important feature when distinguishing between the two pupal predator species. The large pupa predator has a transversely lobed pronotum, which clearly sets it apart from other beetle species, while the small pupa predator has an oval pronotum. Despite their similarities, both species are unique representatives within the genus of pupa predators (Calosoma). These beetles are true survivors and hibernate in the ground as adults for up to three years.

Overall, the return of the pupal predator to our region shows how nature can adapt to changing conditions and reminds us of the importance of protecting and valuing our native beneficial insects. To find out more about these fascinating beetles, the LWF offers a leaflet with portraits of both species for download in order to get the population even more active in nature conservation.