Aporocera erosa rediscovered in St Helens Flora Reserve for first time in more than 100 years

Until now, Aporocera erosa - a small leaf beetle about 1.3 centimetres in length - was only known to live in large areas untouched by historic clearing for settlement and agriculture.

But a recent recorded sighting in the St Helens Flora Reserve showed conservation efforts by authorities and the local Basalt to Bay Landcare Network were protecting habitats which support native fauna and flora.

The 29-hectare reserve, which is managed by Parks Victoria, includes remnant forest habitat and is one of only a handful of locations home to a population of threatened Southern Brown Bandicoots.

The beetle sighting was recorded by long-time landcare employee Lisette Mill, who was undertaking surveys as part of the St Helens Biolink Project. The initiative aims to protect the reserve from foxes and other invasive species.

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Ms Mill said the discovery was thrilled to spot the beetle.

"I was really excited to spot this little beetle as a sign our efforts to protect and enhance the region's environment is working," she said.

"The St Helens Reserve is an island in a sea of agricultural land that is very very precious."

DELWP program manager Donna Burns said the recent find showed the importance of conservation staff.

"What an exciting find," she said.

"Conservation reserves like St Helens play a vital role providing a home for Victoria's native plants and animals. It's inspiring for us to see local dedicated landcare staff out there on the ground helping with their management."

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