Description

Over all length 6 to 7mm. Has black head, antennae, elytra and legs. The pronotum and abdomen are bright red. The antennae are more robust than in Cantharis soldier beetles and the pronotum has two notches on the rear corners.

Habitat

Reed-beds and well vegetated marshy corners.

Status and distribution

Nationally Scarce B. Mainly confined to the south and east of England. Rare further north and possibly the first Nottinghamshire record. Recorded three times at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

June to July.