Species details

Didea fasciata Macquart, 1834

Biology

The larva is aphidophagous and arboreal on both coniferous and deciduous trees. Adults are generally found in or near woodland, including conifer plantations and scrub, where the males aggressively defend sun-lit patches. Typical localities include rides and clearings and tracks through trees.

Distribution

Widespread throughout Britain. Whilst listed by Stubbs (1982) as a "good" primary woodland indicator, records submitted to the recording scheme suggest that it occurs in woodlands of all types, including conifer plantations, secondary woodland and scrub.

Status

Was listed as "Notable" by Falk, 1991, but dropped from this status by Ball & Morris, 2010 who consider it LOWER RISK.