To Conserve or to Control? Endangered Saproxylic Beetles Considered as Forest Pests

Saproxylic beetles are common in all types of forests, but they are more abundant in natural forests. They are mostly recognized as beneficial insects, as they are involved in decomposition and the recycling of nutrients. On the other hand, traditional forestry practices consider them as pests, as they reduce the value of timber. In Europe, 17.9% of saproxylic beetle taxa are considered threatened. The main threats are the reduction, fragmentation, and loss of connectivity of their habitats, mostly as a consequence of forest management. None of the taxa considered as pests are listed as threatened, but many of them are thought to be in decline or their population trend is unknown. Based on European legislation currently in use and the IUCN Red List, along with other regional and national red lists, we propose a simplified decision-making flowchart that should be followed regarding the adoption of different control measures against severe infestations and pest outbreaks. However, the best way to prevent population decline and keep their populations stable is the sustainable management of their habitats.

Automated summary

Saproxylic beetles play a beneficial role in decomposition and nutrient recycling in forests, but are often considered pests in traditional forestry practices due to their impact on timber value. In Europe, almost 18% of saproxylic beetle species are threatened, primarily due to habitat reduction, fragmentation, and loss of connectivity caused by forest management. A simplified decision-making flowchart is proposed to guide control measures against severe infestations and pest outbreaks, based on current European legislation and conservation lists. However, sustainable habitat management is the most effective strategy to prevent population decline and maintain stable populations.