Calopterygidae

Definition

A family of damselflies in the suborder Zygoptera, commonly called broad-winged damselflies, demoiselles, or jewelwings. Distinguished from other damselfly families by the broad, gradual connection between the wings and body (rather than the abrupt petiole seen in Coenagrionidae and related families), and by their relatively large size (wingspans 50–80 mm) and often metallic coloration. The family comprises approximately 150 species in three subfamilies: Caliphaeinae, Calopteryginae, and Hetaerininae.

Etymology

From the genus Calopteryx (Greek kalos 'beautiful' + pteryx 'wing') + the family suffix -idae.

Example

The river jewelwing (Calopteryx aequabilis) and the beautiful demoiselle (Calopteryx virgo) are familiar Calopterygidae of temperate streams, where males defend mating territories with elaborate wing-flashing displays.

Synonyms

• Broad-winged damselflies
• demoiselles
• jewelwings

Related Terms

• Zygoptera
• Odonata
• Coenagrionidae
• Calopterygoidea
• petiole
• damselfly
• dragonfly

Usage Notes

The common name 'demoiselle' (French for 'damsel') reflects the family’s graceful flight and was applied to European species long before 'jewelwing' became standard in North American usage. The broad-winged morphology contrasts with the narrow-winged or 'pond damselflies' of families like Coenagrionidae; this distinction is taxonomically significant and readily visible in the field. Calopterygidae larvae are also distinctive, with elongate, flattened bodies adapted to flowing water habitats.