Stenomalina gracilis

Alternative names
Formerly Stenomalina muscarum.
Description

Genus Stenomalina: The lower edge of the clypeus (face) usually has distinct teeth or is deeply notched in the middle. The antennae are typically inserted at or slightly above the level of the lower eye margins. Like most Pteromalids, the antennae have 13 segments, but in Stenomalina the flagellum is relatively slender and elongated with two ring segments (anelli) and six funicle segments. The "neck" area of the pronotum has a distinct, sharp ridge (carina) along the front edge. The propodeum (rear thorax) lacks a "nucha" (a neck-like projection at the back). 

Stenomalina gracilis: Length 2-3.5mm. Relatively elongate and slender compared to other pteromalids. Typically a brilliant metallic green. The legs often have pale yellow or testaceous (brownish-yellow) sections, the coxae usually match the metallic body color. The marginal vein is significantly longer than the stigmal vein. The anterior margin of clypeus normally with a median tooth and a projection on either side of it. 

Similar Species

Around 15 UK Stenomalina species, difficult to distinguish.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognized expert, explain how the specimen was identified and submit photos of key features. 

Habitat

Often overwinters in evergreens. 

When to see it

All year. 

Life History

Endoparasitoid of various Diptera, mainly Agromyzidae, Cecidomyiidae and Chloropidae. 

UK Status

The commonest member of the genus. Widespread but rarely recorded.

VC55 Status

Unknown.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
Bees, Wasps, Ants
Kingdom:
Order:
Family:
Records on NatureSpot:
1
First record:
25/02/2026 (Cann, Alan)
Last record:
25/02/2026 (Cann, Alan)

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% of records within its species group

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