Corduliidae

Definition

A family of dragonflies (order Odonata) characterized by adults with predominantly black or dark brown bodies bearing metallic green or yellow markings and large, often emerald-green compound eyes. Larvae are typically black, hairy in appearance, and semiaquatic. The family includes ecologically diverse groups commonly known as emeralds, baskettails, sundragons, shadowdragons, and boghaunters, distributed nearly worldwide with greatest diversity in temperate regions.

Etymology

From Latin 'cordulia' (a type of precious stone, related to 'emerald') + '-idae' (family suffix), alluding to the striking green eyes of many species.

Example

The Hine's emerald dragonfly (Somatochlora hineana), a member of Corduliidae, is federally endangered in the United States due to restricted wetland habitat and groundwater contamination.

Synonyms

• emerald dragonflies
• Green-eyed skimmers

Related Terms

• Odonata
• Anisoptera
• Somatochlora
• Cordulegastridae
• Libellulidae
• Exuviae
• semiaquatic

Usage Notes

Corduliidae is one of several families traditionally grouped in the superfamily Libelluloidea, though phylogenetic relationships within Anisoptera remain under revision. The common name 'emeralds' applies specifically to this family and should not be confused with the unrelated green damselfly families (Calopterygidae, Chlorocyphidae). Larval identification relies on caudal gill structure and setal patterns; adults are distinguished from similar Libellulidae by eye coloration and wing venation details.