Ochlerotatus caspius

Alternative names
Aedes caspius
Description

This species has pale rings at the base and end of each joint of the tarsus. (In most species, it is just the base that is pale.) The thorax is evenly ginger with two narrow, pale lines.

Similar Species

Ochlerotatus dorsalis. (The other species with white bands either side of the tarsal segments.)

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a good quality photo is required showing the diagnostic features.

Habitat

Usually a species of slightly brackish water of marshes and fens in coastal areas, but may also be found on inland floodplains.

When to see it

April to October, peaking in May and September.

Life History

This species overwinters in the egg stage. Early spring flooding events lead to the eggs hatching in March, with adults appearing in April and remaining active until October.

UK Status

Shows a south-easterly and coastal bias with a majority of records from the Thames estuary. Probably under-recorded.

VC55 Status

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known. The record of 17th August 2019 was the first for VC55.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2020+ | 2015-2019 | pre-2015

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
Craneflies, Gnats & Midges
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Diptera
Family:
Culicidae
Records on NatureSpot:
2
First record:
17/08/2019 (Gould, David)
Last record:
12/09/2020 (Gould, David)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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