There are 4 British Species of net-winged beetle (Lycidae). One of these (Platycis minutus) is quite widespread. The other three UK species are very restricted and quite rarely encountered. Their features are listed below:
- Antennae: Thick and black, almost serrate (One species, Platycis minutus (F.), has yellow antennal tips)
- Pronotum: Black or red (bicoloured in very rare Erotides cosnardi (Chevrolat)) with distinctive patterns of ridges
- Wing cases: Bright red with distinctive longitudinal ridges and smaller cross-veins in-between
- Legs: Black
- Tarsi: 5-5-5
Where to find them: Associated with rotting wood (specifically that infested with white-rot fungi) in ancient woodlands.