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Agallia cf. laevis
Family: Cicadellidae

The patterning of this largely grass-feeding genus is normally easily recognised, but the species are less easily separated, in some cases involving microscopic examination.

A. laevis is one of several difficult species to identify, including the very similar A. ribauti from which certain separation relies on the genitalia. Females of laevis have finer and sparser puncturation on the forewings, making them relatively shiny. The forewing venation also tends to be more distinct than in ribauti.
   
Local but widely distributed, in dune habitats around UK coasts. Appears to have a short adult lifespan, in mid-late summer.

Adult: August-September
Length 3 mm
Agallia laevis
Adult: North Wales (August 2008) ©Joe Botting