Small World Discoveries

HYMENOPTERA > SYMPHYTA > Tenthredinidae > Selandriinae > Selandrini

A relatively large (8-14mm) sawfly that is very similar to the other, far more common member of the genus described on the following page. Selandria melanosterna has very few records locally and, if it wasn't for the size of the individual featured here, which was certainly around 12mm, I don't think I would have considered it. Apart from the size difference, these two species are usually separated by the comparative length of the third antennal segment, which in Selandria melanosterna is longer, roughly equal to, or fractionally longer than the combined length of the three terminal segments. From the angle in this photo, it's marginal, but I think it's certainly as long, but only just!

The larvae feed on various sedges, grasses and rushes.

New species added, Feb.25 (v.1)