Athalia circularis

Length 5 to 8 mm. This sawfly has an orange abdomen and black on the top of the thorax. There may also be a black band underneath the thorax. The clypeus has a sub-truncate lower edge and the female saw has very shallow teeth. There are other very similar species and detailed examination is necessary to determine the species.

Other Athalia species.

• some black on the thorax sides, can be a black band underneath
• saw with shallow, pointed teeth
• clypeus square-edged (sub-truncate)
• front tibiae usually without fuscous apices

Microscopic examination of the specimen is necessary. Records should include a comment about the ID methodology used and the key features.

Mainly in wet places.

May to September.

The larvae feed on the leaves of various plants including Ground-ivy, Plantago and Veronica species

Common

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.