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Talking Trees · May 10, 2025 · 19 min

Cerambryx cerdo

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. Background information: Wikipedia Send us Fan Mail Support the show Buzzsprout free episodes without subscription all episodes with subscription https://talkingtrees.arboristika.cz/ HeroHero all episodes with subscription https://herohero.co/talkingtrees Arboricultural academy https://arboristickaakademie.cz Podcast is created using AI tools.

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show notes

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.

Background information:

  • Wikipedia


Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Buzzsprout


HeroHero



Arboricultural academy


Podcast is created using AI tools.

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