The intricate design in this tree stump was carved by beetles and their larvae. Although their designs or galleries are beautiful, these insects end up killing their host by destroying the tree’s ability to transport nutrients. The design is revealed when the bark falls away. There is not much left of the original tree but it still has a role in the forest. Fungi grow on its side, vines encircle it and seeds are left on its surface for a passing squirrel or bird.
July 10, 2019 at 9:26 am
A quick note from a conservationist:
This shows how insects can be concealed in wood. In some cases, the insects may be foreign or invasive. If you’re doing any camping, remember not to move the wood further than 50 miles. Wood should remain local to reduce the spread of these hitchhikers.
Paz
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July 10, 2019 at 1:31 pm
Thanks Paz. Timely information.
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July 7, 2019 at 5:25 pm
A neat capture and info, Belinda! Interesting to think about how many birds and insects used the tree through its life and as it rots.
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July 7, 2019 at 6:26 pm
Thank you Ellen. It is pretty remarkable.
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July 7, 2019 at 9:29 am
Well spotted and very nice too Belinda!
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July 7, 2019 at 4:38 pm
Thank you Pete!
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July 4, 2019 at 8:03 pm
Nice Belinda! These are fun to photograph! Sometimes the patterns are amazing, like the ones you show here!
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July 5, 2019 at 7:03 am
Thank you Reed!
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July 4, 2019 at 6:42 pm
Everything is food for something, right down to fungi. The cycles of nature are truly amazing.
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July 4, 2019 at 7:14 pm
Everything has a purpose. Pretty ideal!
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July 4, 2019 at 6:37 pm
I like to envision them scurrying along creating all the winding pathways. So beautiful how you’ve described this, Belinda.
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July 4, 2019 at 7:10 pm
Thank you kindly😊
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July 4, 2019 at 10:52 am
The cycle of life continues.
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July 4, 2019 at 9:46 am
Artwork courtesy of nature!
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July 4, 2019 at 2:54 pm
Some of these designs are very impressive. Artwork indeed!
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July 4, 2019 at 8:14 am
“Fungi grow on its side, vines encircle it and seeds are left on its surface for a passing squirrel or bird.” What an apt description – nothing is wasted in nature.
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July 4, 2019 at 2:48 pm
This reserve is a marvellous place, nature is pretty much left to its own devices. And this works out very well.
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July 4, 2019 at 1:52 am
Who knew that beetles were such artists?
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July 4, 2019 at 7:01 am
Amazing isn’t it!
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