A new Bug appears to have been hiding on Box plants in our area. We need your help to find out how common it really is. More...

Spanioneura fonscolombii is a Jumping Plant Louse (similar to an aphid) found only on Box plants (Buxus sempervirens). While Box is not frequent as a naturalised plant in the County, it is commonly grown in gardens, parks and churchyards. In January 2023 this insect was found for the first time in Leicestershire. As far as we know it is not harmful in any way. Although it is only 3mm long it is quite distinctive with four dark spots on the edge of the pointed forewing and dark tips to the yellow antennae. To find it, hold a pale tray (or a washing up bowl or empty ice cream tub) against a Box bush and give the bush a shake and a few taps. Take a photograph of any insects you find (a hand lens may be helpful) and please submit your records - we would like to know how common this species really is in our area.