Distribution and Biology of Protaetia fieberi (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae)—Is Protection Status Required?

Abstract

Studies on saproxylic species of Coleoptera have garnered significant attention due to the rarity of some of them. To investigate the distribution and biology of Protaetia fieberi (Kraatz, 1880) (Scarabaeidae: Cetoniinae) in European Russia, we analyzed data from 16 regions collected between 2018 and 2024. This species has been reliably recorded in 26 regions. We describe the species’ distribution area boundaries and discuss limiting factors that inhibit its spread to the north, south, and southeast of European Russia. The primary limiting factor is the lack of suitable biotopes. Within its distribution, Protaetia fieberi prefers deciduous and mixed forests of various types. These habitats include both old-growth forest ecosystems and secondary forests that have regenerated following logging. The species also inhabits man-made forest ecosystems, such as field protection forest belts, old parks, and gardens. In forest ecosystems, Protaetia fieberi tends to occupy the upper levels and is rarely found on the ground layer. Conversely, in open areas such as glades, the species is more commonly found at ground level. This distribution pattern is linked to the adults’ feeding preferences, which include consuming sap on tree trunks in forests and feeding on flowering plants in open ecosystems. The seasonal activity of Protaetia fieberi peaks from the third decade of June to the second decade of July. It is hypothesized that the perceived rarity of Protaetia fieberi in research samples is due to the specific baiting methods used, with beer traps being the most effective. The status of the species is re-evaluated in light of new data, suggesting that Protaetia fieberi is common rather than rare in European Russia.