Panorpa germanica

Very similar to Panorpa communis but the wings are often more lightly spotted and spots may even be absent altogether in this species. There are three Panorpa species in Britain and all require close examination with a microscope or good hand lens to distinguish them. In males this involves looking at the ventral surface of the genital capsule and in females the ovipositor.

Identified from P. communis by the shape of the thickened parallel hypovalves on male genital capsule, which are calliper shaped in P. communis.

Females need to be examined with a microscope. Males can be identified from a good view of the hypovalves on the genital capsule.

Hedgerows and shady areas with lush vegetation.

Peak time is May to August.

Larvae are caterpillar like.

Common and widespread in Britain.

Frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.