Malthodes dispar

Range & Status

A scarce species, although widespread over England and Wales.

Regional Distribution

Listed in Clark (1906) and re-discovered in 1989 along the Morden Stream above Cotehele Bridge and in the Millook Valley. Found at Cadsonbury in 2002.

Habitat & Ecology

Characteristic of permanently damp woodlands such as valley bottoms. The larvae probably develop in fallen branches, while the adults occur amongst the herb layer in the shady Alder Alnus glutinosa or Willow Salix spp. woodland.

Threats

Drainage improvements, leading to the drying out of woodland.

Conservation

Protection of undisturbed wet woodlands.