Saproxylic insects—species that rely on dead or decaying wood during part of their life cycle—are key components of forest ecosystems. They contribute significantly to the decomposition of wood and nutrient cycling, yet their populations are increasingly threatened due to intensive forestry practices that reduce the availability of deadwood habitats. In Serbia, these insects remain understudied, posing challenges to effective protected area management and sustainable forestry practices aimed at biodiversity conservation. To address this knowledge gap, we initiated a project to monitor six selected saproxylic beetle species: Cucujus cinnaberinus, Osmoderma barnabita, Cerambyx cerdo, Morimus funereus, Lucanus cervus and Rosalia alpina.

Rosalia alpina

Cucujus cinnaberinus

All of these species are listed on the European Red List of Saproxylic Beetles. The study will be conducted across ten protected areas in Serbia, strategically chosen based on the known or expected distribution of the target species. The goal is to produce detailed distribution maps and generate reliable data that can guide improved forest management and conservation efforts.

A vital component of the project is public engagement. In addition to fieldwork carried out by our expert team, we plan to launch a citizen science campaign to encourage individuals across Serbia to contribute to data collection. Educational activities will be organized for staff of protected areas, local communities, and students of biology and ecology to raise awareness and build capacity in biodiversity monitoring.

Key project outcomes include the development of practical guidelines for protected area managers to support future conservation actions aimed at preserving saproxylic insect habitats. We also aim to foster greater public involvement by informing citizens about the biology of these species and how to report their observations.

Cucujus cinnaberinus habitat

search for Cucujus cinnaberinus

Given the striking appearance and relative ease of identification of the target species, we encourage anyone who encounters them to share their sightings. Observations can be submitted via email at saproksilniinsekti@gmail.com or through the Facebook and Instagram pages of HabiProt. This project, titled “Monitoring of Threatened Saproxylic Beetle Species in Serbia with Public Participation,” is generously supported by the Rufford Foundation.

Morimus funereus