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In a remarkable turn of events for conservationists, a rare and fascinating insect has been rediscovered in Wales after more than sixty years. The Short-Necked Oil Beetle, celebrated for its unique physiology and unusual defense mechanisms, was recently sighted in Pembrokeshire. The species derives its name from its distinctive stubby appearance and a curious habit: when threatened, it secretes a pungent, oily orange substance from its knee joints. For nearly six decades, the beetle was feared to be extinct in the region due to significant habitat loss across the United Kingdom. Until recently, the last recorded sighting in Wales occurred in 1948. However, experts from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust have recently reported a significant breakthrough. While a survey conducted last year yielded only dead adults, researchers have now identified live larvae at a specific site. This evidence confirms that the beetles are successfully breeding in the wild once again, a development that provides considerable hope for their long-term survival. The life cycle of the Short-Necked Oil Beetle is both complex and extraordinary, as it is entirely dependent on solitary bees for its survival. The larvae wait on flowers for a bee to arrive, subsequently hitching a ride back to the bee’s nest. Once inside, they consume the pollen collected by the host. Consequently, the beetle requires a very specific habitat to thrive, characterized by dense vegetation and a high concentration of flowers. Such conditions are typically found in sunny coastal grasslands and sand dunes. At present, the Castlemartin Range in Pembrokeshire serves as the sole location in Wales where this rare insect can be found. The population is part of a flagship recovery program aimed at protecting vulnerable species included on the international Red List. Officials from Natural Resources Wales have emphasized that with only a few suitable habitats remaining in the UK, this specific population is vital. Protecting these creatures requires a sustained commitment to conservation and careful management of the delicate ecosystems they inhabit.

1. What is the primary purpose of the article?

• A.To describe the lifestyle of solitary bees in Wales.
• B.To report on the reappearance of a rare insect species.
• C.To criticize land development in Pembrokeshire.
• D.To explain the chemical composition of insect oil.

2. Why did researchers find the discovery of larvae particularly encouraging?

• A.It proved the beetle could survive without any bees.
• B.It showed the beetles were successfully reproducing in the wild.
• C.It confirmed the exact location of the bee nests.
• D.It meant the adult beetles were no longer dying from habitat loss.

3. What can be inferred about the Short-Necked Oil Beetle’s habitat?

• A.It is found throughout the entire United Kingdom.
• B.It is becoming more common due to climate change.
• C.It requires specific conditions that are becoming increasingly rare.
• D.It is easily recreated in modern urban environments.

4. What is the author’s attitude towards the conservation efforts mentioned?

• A.Skeptical about the high costs involved.
• B.Indifferent to the ultimate survival of the beetle.
• C.Supportive and hopeful about the progress being made.
• D.Worried that the efforts started far too late to help.

5. In the third paragraph, what does the word ‘thrive’ mean?

• A.To move quickly.
• B.To grow and be successful.
• C.To hide from predators.
• D.To hunt for food.