BOB - Behavioural Observations in Beetles

Active

from 11/07/2024

The BOB (acronym for Behavioural Observations in Beetles) App, an initiative by CREA, is dedicated to contributing to the behavioral study of protected insects in Europe. Citizen Scientists are invited to observe three particular types of beetles in their surroundings: the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus), the rosalia longicorn (Rosalia alpina) and the funereal longhorn beetle (Morimus asper).

These three types of beetles are all protected under the European Habitats Directive. During the larval stages, they all rely on dead wood as a source for their development, known as "saproxylic". Once Citizen Scientists come across one of these beetles, they can observe it, take a picture and upload it on the BOB App along with a few requested information. Should participants struggle with identifying the exact beetle species, they can still upload pictures with descriptions and the CREA team will be able to work with the provided information.

Aim

The aim of the BOB App, developed by the SPOTTERON Citizen Science Platform, is to support the conservation of protected beetle species in Europe by involving the public in behavioral observations. Through Citizen Science, the App helps track the presence of species like the stag beetle, rosalia longicorn, and funereal longhorn beetle. By contributing valuable data, participants aid researchers in monitoring these beetles, ultimately supporting their protection and the preservation of their habitats.