Featured speciesText © K. Reißmann, T. Hörren, M. Stern, F. Bötzl and C. Benisch
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05.06.2020
Lixus bardanae (F., 1787)
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The 8 to 12 mm large weevil Lixus bardanae (family Curculionidae) is one of 15 representatives of the genus in Germany. In Europe more than 70 species are known. Its distribution ranges from Spain to Asia Minor and the Caucasus. L. bardanae lives on bunches of Western Dock (Rumex aquaticus) and Great Water Dock (R. hydrolapathum) standing in the water. Therefore it is best observed from aboard a boat. The larvae develop in the stems of the Dock, where they also pupate. Young specimens owe their attractive appearance to the covering with fine yellow dust, which wears off quickly in collected specimens. In Germany, the stenotopic, paludicolous species is nowhere really common, although it is less rare in the northern part. Lixus bardanae is regarded as vulnerable (RL 3) (text/photos: Michael Stern). (MS)
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