Flastena fumipennis

A small planthopper associated with Galingale, Cyperus longus.  Males are smaller than females, and both sexes can be short- or long-winged, or intermediate. The head and thorax range from yellowish to brown, and the abdomen is black.  The forewings are hyaline with a smoky brown tint, and the veins have small tubercles.   Examination of male genitalia confirms identification.     

males

We recommend detailed examination of a specimen, including male genitalia.  The host plant must be noted.

ponds and water bodes with Galingale - including garden ponds, aquatic nurseries.  

A recent coloniser from the Mediterranean region and Southern Europe, first recorded in mainland Britain in 2018. It is probably being distributed through the horticultural trade.

The Bagworth record is thought to be the first for VC55, but it may have been overlooked on other stands of Galingale.  This is not native to VC55, and is uncommon as a naturalised plant.  Colonies may be present in ponds that have been deliberately planted with Galingale acquired from nurseries.

Kirby-Lambert, A. et al (2025)  Flastena fumipennis (Fieber, 1866) (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha: Delphacidae) new to mainland Britain.  Br. J . Ent. Nat. Hist., 38: 2025