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Alydus calcaratus
Family: Alydidae

The sole UK representative of the Alydidae, this large blackish bug is unmistakeable. The 4th antennal segment is curved and the hind femora bear several spines. It is a powerful flier, exposing an orange patch on the surface of the abdomen which can recall a spider-hunting wasp. 

The larvae resemble ants and may develop within ant nests.

Although widely distributed across England and parts of Wales, it is local and found primarily on dry heathland. Also found on brownfield sites in the Thames Gateway.

Adult: All year
Length 10-12 mm
 Alydus calcaratus
Adult: Surrey (August 2008) ©Tristan Bantock
Alydus calcaratus Alydus calcaratus
Adult: Dorset (August 2008) ©Mark Dunkling

 		Adult: Kent (July 2009) ©Tristan Bantock
Alydus calcaratus Alydus calcaratus
Adult: north London (September 2009) ©Tristan Bantock
 		Adult: Surrey (August 2010) ©Tristan Bantock
Alydus calcaratus nymph Alydus calcaratus nymph
Nymph: Kent (July 2009) ©Tristan Bantock

 Nymph: Surrey (August 2010) ©Tristan Bantock