Hello Hivers....
This post is my entry for the macro photography contest hosted by @photofeed. If you would like to enter this contest, please read and follow the rules here
The horned beetle seen in the photo I'm sharing is Rosalia alpina, also known as the Alpine Longhorn Beetle. This insect has a pale blue body with striking black stripes and very long antennae. Its beautiful coloration makes it stand out among the forest foliage. Rosalia alpina is one of the most beautiful horned beetle species and has become a conservation symbol in several European countries.
This beetle typically lives in cool, humid mountain forests, especially in areas with many old or decaying trees that serve as breeding grounds for its larvae. Adult beetles are active during the summer and are often found basking on the surface of dead tree trunks. The long antennae of males can exceed their body length, while females have slightly shorter antennae.
Unfortunately, the existence of Rosalia alpina is increasingly threatened by the loss of its natural habitat. Illegal logging and the loss of old trees as egg-laying sites have caused the beetle's population to decline drastically. Several European countries have listed it as a protected species and established conservation programs to ensure its survival. This beetle is not only aesthetically appealing but also plays a vital role in the forest ecosystem as part of the decomposition process of dead wood.
Important Note: I wrote in Indonesian, then translated it using Google Translate.