Dilta

Dilta are a genus of primitive wingless invertebrates with long antennae. They are slender with dull, often mottled, colouring and jump when disturbed. Although difficult to identify to species level, they can be placed in a genus by examining the arrangement of the ocelli (eyespots). Bristletails are difficult to identify to species level and precise identification requires examination of microscopic features. Unfortunately identification can only be performed on adult males and many populations are all female (parthenogenetic) so cannot be identified beyond genus level. On NatureSpot we group them together as Dilta spp. unless identification can be confirmed by a national verifier.

These are most likely to be encountered in heathland by checking rocks and vegetation.

All year round.

True status is in Britain difficult to determine as difficulty of identification has led to a lack of records.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland unknown.