Sweden's oldest spruce forests are becoming rare and when they disappear, it affects the species that depend on that environment. An example of this is the large bark plate beetle that is protected.
"If you look in a hundred places, you might find it in one," says biologist Emilia Vesterberg, who works with the county administrative board's action programme for endangered species in Norrbotten.
Made unusual bargain
The rare species is found mainly in old-growth forests and nature reserves.
"It is extremely picky and thrives best on dead spruce trees. The trees should lie down and be at least 200 years old, preferably older. They don't want the forests to be felled or cleared.
"Only available in 14-15 places in Sweden"
Recently, the County Administrative Board of Norrbotten made a forest inventory in Granbergsliden in Överkalix. Then the beetle was found outside protected forest, which is very unusual.
"I was completely euphoric. I know that if it flies away and lands on a clearing, it's over. It is only available in 14-15 places in Sweden today, says Emilia Vesterberg.
Lives seven years under the bark
This particular ram cannot fly very far, which makes it difficult to spread. And it lives under the bark of really old spruce trees for up to seven years before it hatches and becomes a full-grown beetle.
"I think it's so cute because it lives so long in total darkness and is happy with it.
That sounds like a typical Norrbotten?
"I really agree with that. It has a tough time but struggles on.
In the video, you can see when the rare beetle is found in an unexpected place – and what it can lead to in the forest area.