Small World Discoveries

HYMENOPTERA > SYMPHYTA > Tenthredinidae > Tenthredininae > Tenthredopsini

A slimly-built, medium-sized (9-11mm) variable species with females that are rather similar to Tenthredopsis nassata. Positive identification of the individual featured here is not certain, but typical specimens are described as black with a red band occupying tergites S3 - S6 and, in most cases, with the hind legs darkened. The wing stigmas are bicoloured with a whitish base and dark apex. The clypeus can be black or, as can be seen here, with two large white spots. Another particular feature is that the centre of tergite S2 is smooth and shiny, but that can't be determined from any of these photos.

The species is regarded as common particularly across central and southern regions. Information regarding preferred habitat is virtually non-existent apart from a mention of well-vegetated areas. The flight period is given as May to July.