Description

Over all length 8 to 14 mm. Very similar to Selandria serva, but nearly twice the size. The head and thorax are black and the abdomen orange, but sometimes the sides of the thorax may also be orange. The wings have a black stigma halfway along the leading edge of the fore-wing.

Habitat

Emergent vegetation beside ponds and lakes. Often found on reed sweet-grass. The larvae feed on waterside grasses, sedges and rushes.

Status and distribution

Widely distributed across England and Wales but much less common than Selandria serva. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire and recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to September.