The broad-leaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius) is a widely distributed weed of cultivated
grasslands. Since the dock leaf beetle (Gastrophysa viridula) can defoliate docks
extensively, if occurring in sufficient high densities, it is considered to be a potential
part of a biocontrol strategy against R. obtusifolius. Our study aimed at investigating
the influence of precipitation on the distribution of G. viridula. For that, 635
questionnaires were sent out to organic farmers and surveys were conducted on 39
farms in Lower Austria. The results showed G. viridula preferring regions with
sufficient precipitation. These observations confirmed laboratory results reported in
literature and should be considered in a concept for the enhancement of dock beetle
populations as part of an organic dock regulation strategy
