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Psococerastis gibbosa

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Species account
Psococerastis gibbosa A large (c.6.5-8mm) barkfly; the largest species found in Britain and Ireland. In the field the combination of large size and mainly colourless wings makes the species easily recognisable. Uncommon but widespread.
Psococerastis gibbosa The apical segment of the maxillary palp is short (c.2.5 times as long as wide). The similarly large sized species, Metylophorus nebulosus, has a much longer apical segment (c.5 times as long as wide).
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Psococerastis gibbosa Female
The female forewing is distinct from other species by the dark marks in the apical part of the wing.
Psococerastis gibbosa Psococerastis gibbosa Female
The subgenital plate has a characteristic ‘T’ shape.
Psococerastis gibbosa Male
The male forewing is less distinct than the female since it lacks the dark marks in the apical part of the wing.
Psococerastis gibbosa Psococerastis gibbosa Male
The hypandrium (apex of abdomen) is asymmetrical; the right hand edge has a row of denticles (small teeth).

 

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