Small World Discoveries

HYMENOPTERA > SYMPHYTA > Argidae > Arginae

This species is similar to Arge cyanocrocea except that instead of having a continuous dark band across the wings, the black area below the stigma is more of a blotch. The other distinguishing feature that usually helps to separate these two species is that the hind femur of Arge melanochra is black.

Arge melanochra is an infrequent species with scattered southernly distribution. It has a flight period from late May through to August when it can be found in areas where hawthorn is present. Adults like to forage on umbellifers such as hogweed.

Updated, Jan.23 (v.2)