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Arge gracilicornis

The animal in the picture was identified by Ad Mol, one of the best experts on sawflies in the Netherlands. The eyes of this species differ from those of the other black Arge species. The main difference however is in the veins in the wing. Vein 3sm is sigmoid. In others this vein runs straight or has one curve only. Arge gracilicornis reaches a length of 7 to 8 mm and is black, often with a metallic blue gloss. The wings are dark, but brighten up near the tip.

Measuring up to 18 mm the larvae are similar to those of other Arge species. The basic colour is extremely variable though: white, yellow, brownish, green, purple or even pink. Characteristic is the second segment of the body which is yellow in all variations. Both the head and the anal segments are hairy. The larvae are seen from May on raspberry and blackberry. They eat from the leaves of fresh sprouts not carrying flowers or fruit. Young larvae live in groups, older larvae live a solitary life. The larva pupates in the ground.

Arge gracilicornis has two broods in Western and Central Europe. It can be seen from May to September. In northern regions, such as Scotland, there's only one brood a year, starting in May or June. This is a common species all over Britain.