72.040 BF2042

Small Dotted Footman Pelosia obtusa

(Herrich-Schäffer, 1851)

---

Wingspan c.25mm.

A very localised species, occurring only in the Norfolk Broads, where it was first discovered in the early 1960s.

Superficially similar to Dotted Footman, the present species is shorter with a broader, more rounded forewing, and slightly different arrangement of dots.

It inhabits reedbeds and flies in June and July, and can be attracted to light.

The larva is thought to feed on algae, probably on fallen, dead branches.