Ribautodelphax imitans

A small planthopper with a distinct pale median band through pronotum and scutellum.  Males are a darker brown than the pale-coloured females.  The forewings are hyaline or a light brown. 

Very similar to many planthoppers, including several other species of Ribautodelphax

male

Close examination/dissection of male is needed to separate this species from other Ribautodelphax.   Females cannot be identifed with confidence.  Also photograph a specimen, and note habitat. We recommend that a specimen of the male is retained for confirmation of your record by an expert.

This species is said to be associated with Tall Fescue Schedonorus arudinaceus in moist eutrophic places (ref. Biedermann & Niedringhaus, 2009) but in VC55 it has been found in dry exposed grassland on a brownfield site with Festuca rubra and various leguminous plants.

RDBK (Red Data Book - insufficiently known or data deficient) - ref.: UK Auchenorryncha checklist 2021 on British Bugs website.  

Rare