Osmoderma eremita, the hermit beetle or Russian leather beetle, is a species of European beetle in the family Scarabaeidae. Adults reach between 28 and 32 mm in length.

Distribution

Osmoderma eremita can be found everywhere in Europe, except for the United Kingdom, Iceland, Ireland, Malta, Portugal, and San Marino.

Larvae

The larvae develop in hollow trees. Oak is the preferred kind of tree, but the larvae may develop in any tree species with suitable hollows. Due to extensive scientific research, O. eremita is the most well known insect species associated with ancient or hollow trees. For instance, research has addressed the beetles' dispersal biology, population dynamics, and chemical communication. Trained conservation detection dogs are being used in monitoring larvae in Italy.

Conservation status

Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, the species has decreased all over its distribution range. For this reason the species is protected in most European countries, and has been given the highest priority according to the EU's Habitats Directive. LIFE's projects in Poodří, Czech Republic and Gipuzkoa, Spain led by Arnika, Ostrava University and Aranzadi Science Societyaimed at expanding the habitat of this endangered species.