The LIFE BEETLES project, coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, began in January 2020 and ended at the end of 2025, with 55% co-financing from the European Commission throughout this period.
Main objective:
To increase and improve the habitat, distribution area and conservation status of three endemic beetle species: the Ground Beetle on Terceira, the Ground Beetle on Pico and the Ironclad Beetle on Flores.
Why are these beetles so important?
These species are of high ecological value as they provide essential ecosystem services, such as the renewal of organic matter in the Laurissilva Forest. However, the advance of invasive plant species, habitat degradation and climate change threatened them.
Results achieved:
– Planting of 29,500 endemic or native plants;
– Removal of 500 tonnes of invasive species;
– Increase in the population of the project’s target species by around 60%;
– Creation of around 13% new habitat.
And after the project?
The work does not end here. The Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action is committed to maintaining and continuing the actions carried out, ensuring the consolidation of the results achieved and the lasting protection of the restored ecosystems.
This joint effort represents a firm step towards protecting the biodiversity of the Azores, valuing our natural heritage and promoting harmonious coexistence between local communities and island ecosystems.
