Length 3.5-4.5mm. Probably the most common species of this difficult genus. The forewings are entirely reflective and the pronotum entirely black. The legs are mostly orange-brown, with variable development of small dark patches near the tip of the femora, especially on the hind leg. The antennae are largely pale in the 2nd and 3rd segments, with dark tips to the segments, and dark 1st and 4th segments; length of second antennal segment greater than width of head across eyes. The dark patch on the membrane is typically hourglass-shaped.

Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify this species. Photographs need to show the key features: forewings entirely reflective and the pronotum entirely black; legs are mostly orange-brown, with variable development of small dark patches near the tip of the femora, especially on the hind leg. The antennae are largely pale in the 2nd and 3rd segments, with dark tips to the segments, and dark 1st and 4th segments; LENGTH OF SECOND ANTENNAL SEGMENT GREATER THAN WIDTH OF HEAD ACROSS EYES. The dark patch on the membrane is typically hourglass-shaped. 

Found on almost any plants, but preferring lower vegetation to trees.

Adult: all year.

The species is predatory.

Abundant across the UK.

Very common in Leicestershire and Rutland.