Range & Status

Formerly widespread in southern England with a scattered distribution further north, but has become increasingly scarce.

Regional Distribution

First reported in Cornwall from Mount' s Bay (Clark, 1906). Re-discovered in this area on Willow Salix spp. at Marazion in 1973 by R.T. Bannister, with unconfirmed records from Rosemullion Head and Penpoll in 1974.

Habitat & Ecology

The larvae are inquilines in the galls of Pontania sawflies on Willow foliage.

Threats

Clearance of Willow scrub as part of wetland ' restoration' work.

Conservation

Marazion Marsh is now managed as a nature reserve. This species is listed on the UK BAP Priority Species list (2007).