Description
Body length 10 – 12mm. A large sawfly with clubbed antennae. The abdomen has metallic bands on each segment that can reflect gold, green or magenta. The thorax has metallic markings that make what looks a bit like a wasp’s face. The male has a dark, concave groove on the last four segments of its abdomen. The very similar, and rare, A. candens has a dark tip and base to the antennae.
Habitat
Hedgerows and meadows. The larvae feed on Teasel, Field Scabious and Devil’s-bit Scabious.
Status and Distribution
Fairly widespread in Britain, but not very common. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire and recorded four times at Netherfield Lagoons.
Best Time to See
May to August.
Gallery
