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Dicranocephalus agilis
Family: Stenocephalidae

 This is the sole genus within the Stenocephalidae and all Dicranocephalus species feed on spurges Euphorbia. The two British species are difficult to separate externally, despite their large size and bold markings. D. agilis is larger, more elongate and more parallel-sided in shape and has a shorter rostrum which does not reach the hind coxae. Habitat and host plant are also useful guides to identification.

D. agilis is a scarce species confined to sand dunes in southern and south-west Britain, where it is associated with Portland Spurge and Sea Spurge. Adults overwinter and mate in May, the new generation appearing from August onwards.

Compare: D. medius

Adult: All year
Length 12-14 mm		 Dicranocephalus agilis
Adult on foodplant: north Wales (July 2009) ©Tristan Bantock
Dicranocephalus agilis Dicranocephalus agilis
Adult: south Wales (May 2009) ©Barry Stewart

 Adult on foodplant: north Wales (July 2009) ©Tristan Bantock
Dicranocephalus agilis Dicranocephalus agilis nymph
Adults: north Wales (June 2008) ©Tristan Bantock

 Early instar nymph: north Wales (July 2010) ©Tristan Bantock
Dicranocephalus agilis nymph Dicranocephalus agilis nymph
Mid instar nymph: north Wales (July 2010) ©Tristan Bantock
 Final instar nymph: north Wales (September 2007) ©Tristan Bantock