Sawfly possibly . . . ?

[Geoff F]

In my S. Devon garden today. Approx 10 or 12 mm.





Firstly, is this definitely a sawfly?

If so, which species? The multi jointed antennae (8 or 9 segments I think) plus a single spur on the tibia is making me think about Xiphydria, and the colour does appear similar to some of that family.

A noticeable dark patch on the leading wing edges; plus clear whitish marks on the thorax and fainter marks around the eyes.

So before I start trying to wade through some more ID Keys with these rather inadequate photos; does anybody have any suggestions on this specimen?

[oxycera]

Aglaostigma.

[Geoff F]

Thanks for that, it has saved my days (possibly weeks) of searching!

I have the Aidgap Sawfly Identification Guide but find keys are so difficult to use with photos where most of the important items are hidden from view.

With a rather dark underside, I suppose A. aucupariae is the more likely. But it is a new family for me.

[oxycera]

Originally Posted by Geoff F

A. aucupariae is the more likely.

Probably. It's the first sawfly I ever tried to identify with Benson's key, about 25 years ago. Once I'd cracked that I realised what an excellent key it was (and still is).