Siphanta hebes (Walker)
Caution
Many of the insects depicted on these pages are outwardly similar and you should not use photographs as the sole means of identification. These pages form part of a scientific key which will assist a trained entomologist to identify the species accurately.
(Flatidae: Flatinae: Siphantini)
This is one of five species that are somewhat variable in size, shape of tegmen and, to some extent, colour but can only be differentiated by examination of the male genitalia. See also S. acuta, S. angularis, S. eberhardi and S. tropica
This species is very similar to S. acuta in appearance and distribution and is also very common. Generally, specimens of S. hebes are smaller than those of S. acuta, although the variation in size in both species means it is often difficult to identify individual specimens. Fletcher (1985: Figs 19-20, 97, 161-164) provides illustrations of the habitus, head and genitalia.
A rare blue form has been reported on at least two occasions (see pic below) [update: 15.iii.2011]
Rare blue form of S. hebes with normally coloured specimen (photo Wendy Moore, Coburg, Victoria.)
[image added: 15.iii.2011]