Cantharis cryptica - Soldier beetle

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Classification Coleoptera Family: Cantharidae

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Length 7 to 8.5 mm..

Phenology May to August peaking in July.

Identification One of 6 British testaceous Soldiers An orange/brown beetle with black rings above the 'knees' and all-yellow palps. There are several similar species and precise identification may need detailed examination - Principly in two respects last segment of mandible which is dark in the closest similar Cantharis pallida and secondly differential Id is the mixed hair size on the electrya seen on this specimen as opposed to the more evenly differentiated finer hair of pallida .

Life Cycle

Habitat Various habitats. It may be found in long grass, on umbel flowers, bushes and trees.

Cantharis cryptica 8030

 

Cantharis cryptica 8025

 

 

Cantharis cryptica 8035

 

 

Cantharis cryptica 8038