Dicyrtomina ornata

In Dicyrtomina ornata the antennae are all the same colour along their length, whereas in D. saundersi there is a distinct colour change at the joint of sections 2 and 3 of the antennae. In addition, in D. ornata the dorsal colour of the 6th abdominal segment is predominantly dark, in D. saundersi it is pale. The historical records for D. ornata are confused. D. ornata has been frequently identified by the large rectangular patch of dark pigment on the abdomen, but this species is very variable in pattern and colour. In Dicyrtomina saundersi, the abdominal patch has a distinctive "multi-barred cross" pattern, but there are individuals of D. ornata that look very much like this.  This is not reliable on its own - specimens of Dicyrtomina ornata and Dicyrtomina saundersi grade into each other. In recent years (since it is a new arrival in the UK), Jordanathrix nr superba, has probably also been confused with D. ornata but in this species the colour of the eyepatch is much paler (with dark ocelli) than D. ornata.

Dicyrtomina saundersi, Jordanathrix nr superba.

Submissions need to show details of the antennae and/or the 6th abdominal segment dorsal surface. 

On the ground in damp places such as leaf litter.

All year round.

A common species found throughout England, Scotland and Wales.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.