Corixa affinis

Corixa affinis is the smallest of the four species of Corixa found in the UK, with a length of 8 to 9 mm.  Like the slightly larger Corixa panzeri (10 to 11 mm) it has 10 to14 pale lines on the pronotum (other Corixa species have 15 to 20), but can be distinguished from Corixa panzeri by size, the broader black lines on the forewings of Corixa panzeri and by the number of pegs on the male pala; Corixa affinis has fewer than 30 while Corixa panzeri has more the 30. 

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

Pools and other small water bodies, including brackish ditches and pools near the coast.

All year round.

Feeds mainly on single cell algae and plant debris.

Mainly found in the southern half of Britain and often near to the coast.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.