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Dicranocephalus medius
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. medius is smaller, less elongate and more rounded in shape and has a longer rostrum which reaches the hind coxae. Habitat and host plant are also useful guides to identification.

D. medius is a scarce species which has been recorded from central and southern Britain, where it is associated mainly with Wood Spurge in woodland clearings. In recent years there have been a number of records from non-native spurges and spurge hybrids, for example Euphorbia x psudovirgata, suggesting that the bug is widening its host range. This may lead to a spread into more synanthropic habitats such as parks and gardens.

Adults overwinter and mate in May, the new generation appearing from August onwards.

Compare D. agilis

Adult: All year
Length 8-11 mm		 Dicranocephalus medius
Adult: Isle of Wight (June 2010) ©Ian Boyd
Dicranocephalus medius Dicranocephalus medius
Adult: Hants (August 2010) ©Tristan Bantock

 Adult: Hants (August 2010) ©Tristan Bantock
Dicranocephalus medius Dicranocephalus medius
Adults: Shropshire (May 2007) ©John Bingham

 Adults: Surrey (June 2014) ©Tristan Bantock