Gastrophysa viridula, Green Dock Beetle

Common Name: Green Dock Beetle

The length of Gastrophysa viridula, more commonly known as the Green Dock Beetle, varies between sexes, with the males being 4 mm and the females being 7 mm. During the mating season, females have enlarged abdomens (see photos above). Both sexes are green with a metallic shimmer, which, depending on the light, can be gold green, blue, purple, violet, or red. The legs of this species also shimmer a metallic green, and are strongly built. The antennae are serrated and are of a medium length.

Gastrophysa viridula feeds mainly on dock and green sorrel, rarely feeding on other plants, and its breeding season is from March to October. There are 2 to 4 broods per year, with the last brood hibernating as an adult. The female lays over 1,000 eggs, laying them in clusters of 20 to 45 on the underside of the food plant's leaves. Common and widespread throughout the UK.

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