Chafer
Gnorimus variabilis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gnorimus_variabilis
Overview
Gnorimus variabilis, also known as the variable chafer, is a species of scarab beetle belonging to the subfamily Cetoniinae, the flower chafers. It was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. The species is native to Europe and is usually found in oak and beech woods or parkland.
Gnorimus variabilis faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat loss from deforestation and the removal of old-growth trees containing the hollow trunks essential for its larval development. The species' dependence on ancient woodland ecosystems makes it extremely vulnerable to forest fragmentation and modern forestry practices that eliminate dead and dying trees.
Habitat
When the Gnorimus variabilis is a larva, it develops in wood mold like the trunks or the branches. Normally, larvae had a growing time of around 2 years. However that can depend on the environmental situation. Gnorimus variabilis is located in particular areas in different countries. For instance, it maybe found in conifers in Southern Europe. In the United Kingdom, it may be hidden in the old...
Other threatened species in Scarabaeidae
Threatened in Albania
Frequently asked questions
Why is Chafer classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Chafer live?
What are the main threats to Chafer?
Get weekly conservation intelligence
One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.
Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.