Sycamore Supporter or Slayer
Posted: Thu Aug 26, 2010 7:47 pm
Sycamore Supporter or Slayer:
Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), generally gets a bad press, invasive, non-native, supporting few invert species, taking space from native trees etc, etc. Most conservationists like nothing more than clearing a woodland of the dreaded weed.
Not so hasty please ! This tree supports a vast amount of invertebrates, maybe not species rich (yet), but certainly the weight of individuals is seriously impressive. This tree has more insectivorous birds feeding in its canopy in summer and autumn than any other species of tree. The huge aphid numbers also attract a seriously impressive array of Ladybirds and other aphid predators. Orange ladybird is a specialist of this tree for much of the year. It also appears to be the best place to find the locally scarce Oak Bush Cricket.
I have the distinct impression that increasing numbers of species are becoming adapted to exploiting this much maligned tree. Give this tree a break and study it a bit more closely. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Any nay-sayers out there ?
Cheers
Jeff
Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), generally gets a bad press, invasive, non-native, supporting few invert species, taking space from native trees etc, etc. Most conservationists like nothing more than clearing a woodland of the dreaded weed.
Not so hasty please ! This tree supports a vast amount of invertebrates, maybe not species rich (yet), but certainly the weight of individuals is seriously impressive. This tree has more insectivorous birds feeding in its canopy in summer and autumn than any other species of tree. The huge aphid numbers also attract a seriously impressive array of Ladybirds and other aphid predators. Orange ladybird is a specialist of this tree for much of the year. It also appears to be the best place to find the locally scarce Oak Bush Cricket.
I have the distinct impression that increasing numbers of species are becoming adapted to exploiting this much maligned tree. Give this tree a break and study it a bit more closely. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Any nay-sayers out there ?
Cheers
Jeff