Devastating jewel beetle infestation threatens German oak forests

Oak forests in Germany are facing an alarming crisis as a destructive infestation of jewel beetles wreaks havoc, leading to widespread damage. The hardest-hit areas are currently in the central and southern regions of Hesse, as well as southern Saxony-Anhalt. This infestation has spread rapidly, affecting entire oak stands of all ages, jeopardizing their vital role in conservation efforts. Over recent years, observations from these heavily impacted regions indicate that even areas previously less affected by jewel beetle infestations now require urgent attention. Jewel beetle populations in Germany have displayed an alarming capacity for exponential growth, and ...