Small World Discoveries

HYMENOPTERA > SYMPHYTA > Tenthredinidae > Tenthredininae > Tenthredopsini

A small to medium-sized (7-9mm), early spring species that is very similar to the previously described Aglaostigma aucupariae in respect of general appearance with a black, red-girdled abdomen, except that the creamy-coloured markings on the head and thorax are slightly more extensive. The main difference though is that the sides of the abdomen are also pale in both sexes and, particularly in the males, the underside as well. In some males the pale colouration may also extend to the face.

Aglaostigma fulvipes tends to fly a couple of weeks later than Aglaostigma aucupariae, so can be seen from April to June. They are a relatively common species across most areas, but again becoming scarcer further north. Adults may be found in similar habitats as the black-vented form and the larval foodplants are again bedstraws, particularly Hedge Bedstraw and Lady's Bedstraw.