by Santosh Rajus – A beautiful and huge tree at my field site always captured my eyes. I was amazed by the birds, insects and small mammals thriving on it. It really saddened me when this tree fell during the heavy rains. But when I started closely observing the fallen tree, I was once again filled with happiness. The tree was still filled with life. Fallen trees release a smell which attracts several species of insects, which then attract other predators that feed on them. The smell of the tree after it has fallen changes over time and attracts different types of insects for food, mating and egg-laying. It really amazes me when I see these tiny insects do what they are best at. The pictures below will tell the rest of the story. Next time when you see a dead tree, take time to spot these beautiful and smart insects.
This beetle gathered in great numbers with males defending their small territories for mating.
A longhorn beetle searching for cracks on cut wood for egg laying.
Another group of beetles gathered on the wood for feeding, mating and egg laying.
Stilt-legged flies are attracted to decaying wood.
A beetle patiently waiting for its mate.
A male fly guarding its mate while she was laying eggs.
NICE 