Length 3.5-4.5 mm. A difficult genus including some common species; all have one large and several small spines on the underside of the front femur. The sides of the pronotum have a large pale spot just behind the middle. The critical features in S. affinis are the short wing membrane (about 3 times wider than it is long), and the antennal pattern; the 1st and 2nd segments are pale, and the 3rd and 4th segments dark with the base of the 3rd pale. Confirmation of this species requires views of the underside to check for the presence of mesothoracic tubercles (also present on S. grandis) - needs photos from the side with a clear view of the underside between forelegs and middle legs. 

Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species (a photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are too small or hidden).

Confirmation of this species requires views of the underside to check for the presence or absence of mesothoracic tubercles (also present on S. grandis). Need photos from the side with a clear view of the underside between forelegs and middle legs. 

Often on nettle clumps.

Adult: all year.

Fairly frequent and widespread in Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.