Mosaic Darners
Aeshna
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Odonata
- Suborder: Anisoptera
- Family: Aeshnidae
- Genus: Aeshna
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aeshna: /ˈaɪʃnə/
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Images
Summary
Aeshna, or the mosaic darners, comprises a genus of dragonflies characterized by their size and distinct coloration. They play a significant role in their ecosystem as insectivores in freshwater habitats.
Physical Characteristics
Relatively large dragonflies with thoraxes that are brown in color, featuring blue or yellow stripes or spots. Abdomens have yellow, blue, or green spots.
Identification Tips
Look for size and coloration; blue or yellow markings on the thorax, yellow, blue, or green on the abdomen.
Habitat
Found in a variety of freshwater habitats including lakes, ponds, and marshes.
Distribution
Holarctic and Neotropical regions.
Diet
Insectivorous, primarily feeding on smaller insects.
Life Cycle
Undergo complete metamorphosis, with eggs hatching into aquatic nymphs.
Reproduction
Typically involves laying eggs in or near water bodies; mating occurs in flight.
Predators
Birds, amphibians, and larger insectivorous organisms.
Ecosystem Role
Important predators in their habitats, helping to control populations of smaller insects.
Collecting Methods
- Bating with light traps
- Netting during flight hours
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying and mounting specimens
Evolution
The genus Aeshna has been shown to have distinct lineages, with some species classified into other genera such as Rhionaeschna.
Similar Taxa
- Rhionaeschna
- Zosteraeschna
- Afroaeschna
Misconceptions
Some people may confuse them with other types of dragonflies due to similar coloration.
Tags
- dragonfly
- Aeshna
- mosaic darners
- Odonata