Forest Bug nymphs, Kingmoor and Finglandrigg Wood Nature Reserves, 1 May 15
Eight Forest Bug nymphs found in Kingmoor Sidings (Specimen 1) and Finglandrigg Wood (Specimens 2 - 8) Nature Reserves, 1 May 15.
In order to facilitate the identification of the green-coloured longhorn moth photographed in Finglandrigg Wood last week (26 April), I needed to establish the length of its forewing; however, despite having taken several shots of it perched on a finger for reference purposes, I still found it difficult to work this out to the required degree of accuracy. So I decided that in future I'd use a bit of graph paper instead.
Although I had no problem identifying these nymphs (what else could they be at this time of year?) I thought it might still be useful to record their dimensions in the hope of being able to establish their stage of development.
The eight nymphs were all found on wooden posts or handrails under mature Oak trees (as per usual!) at various locations. Conveniently, they all seem to be either about 3.5mm (Specimens 4, 5 and 8) or 4.5mm in length (Specimens 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7) when measured from "nose to tail". At first glance the only fly in the ointment would appear to be Specimen 8, which clearly falls into the smaller category, but has markings more charcteristic of the larger specimens. For the record, Specimens 7 and 8 were found about 10m apart on the rail of a boardwalk and the size difference was immediately apparent.
I think I'll need to do some more homework on this one!
My intention is to carry out such measurements to the final instar stage - assuming I can find the specimens, that is.
Note added 30 December 15: See my 2015 Forest Bug Overview for more information on the early-instar nymphs:
Forest Bug nymphs, Kingmoor and Finglandrigg Wood Nature Reserves, 1 May 15
Eight Forest Bug nymphs found in Kingmoor Sidings (Specimen 1) and Finglandrigg Wood (Specimens 2 - 8) Nature Reserves, 1 May 15.
In order to facilitate the identification of the green-coloured longhorn moth photographed in Finglandrigg Wood last week (26 April), I needed to establish the length of its forewing; however, despite having taken several shots of it perched on a finger for reference purposes, I still found it difficult to work this out to the required degree of accuracy. So I decided that in future I'd use a bit of graph paper instead.
Although I had no problem identifying these nymphs (what else could they be at this time of year?) I thought it might still be useful to record their dimensions in the hope of being able to establish their stage of development.
The eight nymphs were all found on wooden posts or handrails under mature Oak trees (as per usual!) at various locations. Conveniently, they all seem to be either about 3.5mm (Specimens 4, 5 and 8) or 4.5mm in length (Specimens 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7) when measured from "nose to tail". At first glance the only fly in the ointment would appear to be Specimen 8, which clearly falls into the smaller category, but has markings more charcteristic of the larger specimens. For the record, Specimens 7 and 8 were found about 10m apart on the rail of a boardwalk and the size difference was immediately apparent.
I think I'll need to do some more homework on this one!
My intention is to carry out such measurements to the final instar stage - assuming I can find the specimens, that is.
Note added 30 December 15: See my 2015 Forest Bug Overview for more information on the early-instar nymphs: