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Muellerianella brevipennis Family: Delphacidae A small genus of three UK species with similar colouring involving a paler central area and darker sides (also present strikingly in nymphs). The species are best distinguished by the male genitalia. The male genital segment is deeply incidsed posteriorly, in side view. In addition to the genitalia, M. brevipennis reportedly differs from M. extrusa and the much more common M. fairmairei in that there are no dark mottles along the leading edge of the eye (below). It is unclear how reliable this is, and the genitalia should always be checked. Macropters also occur. A local species found in scattered locations across the UK, usually in damp areas such as ditches, where it feeds on Tussock Grass (Deschampia caespitosa). Adult: July to October Length 2.5-4 mm
	Adult male: Merseyside (October 2009) ©Steve Tomlinson
Adult male, detail: Mid Wales (September 2009) ©Joe Botting	Adult female: Merseyside (October 2009) ©Steve Tomlinson