Newsletter 1/2018: ARGE Biological Cocklebur Regulation

Biological control of common cocklebur (*Xanthium strumarium*) using the broadleaf glasswing (*Libytheana carinenta*) in Austrian grasslands. Trials in 2016–2017 revealed low larval infestation (7.5%) and hatching rates (55–77%), with larvae burrowing into soil before root attachment. A weather-independent inoculation capsule failed due to unstable nutrient media and predation. Artificial grasshopper rearing succeeded, but mass production requires research on temperature-sensitive pupal survival and optimal media. Project concludes current methods are inefficient; foundational research needed before practical application. Funded by German Federal Ministry for Sustainability and Tourism, EU rural development, and regional authorities. Contact: ARGE 'Biological Cocklebur Regulation', Steinkirchen, Austria.