One of several similar species. Detailed examination is always needed to determine species, and this is often only possible with males. The wings are clothed with a mealy off white powder.

Found in various habitats but mainly associated with pine and also attracted to light.

April to November.

Larva eats aphids on trees.

Widespread in England, but under recorded, rare in Scotland and not yet recorded in Wales or Ireland.

Uncommon or under recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were only 3 validated records for this species according to the 'Checklist of Neuroptera and allies in VC55' published in 2018.