Dorocordulia libera

(Selys, 1871)

Racket-tailed Emerald

Dorocordulia libera, the racket-tailed emerald, is a in the Corduliidae. It is characterized by metallic green coloration and a slender build. The species occurs in northeastern North America, where it inhabits shallow wetlands. are active during the spring and early summer months.

Dorocordulia libera by (c) Nick Block, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nick Block. Used under a CC-BY license.Dorocordulia libera by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Dorocordulia libera by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dorocordulia libera: //ˌdɔːroʊkɔːrˈduːliə ˈlɪbərə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

The combination of metallic green coloration, slender build, and clear wings distinguishes this from other . The specific epithet 'libera' and 'racket-tailed emerald' suggest a distinctive tail , though detailed diagnostic features for separation from are not provided in available sources.

Images

Appearance

Metallic green, slender with brown hair, black legs, and clear wings. The body exhibits the characteristic emerald green sheen typical of the Corduliidae .

Habitat

Shallow bogs, ponds, streams, and other wetlands. The is associated with shallow, vegetated freshwater .

Distribution

Northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. Specific records include Vermont, USA.

Seasonality

Spring and early summer activity period, typical for emerald dragonflies in temperate regions.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Dorocordulia speciesCongeneric share metallic green coloration and slender build, requiring careful examination of morphological details for identification.
  • Other Corduliidae (emerald dragonflies) members share metallic green coloration; separation requires attention to body proportions, wing venation, and abdominal structure.

More Details

Taxonomic History

Originally described as Cordulia libera by Selys in 1871, later transferred to the Dorocordulia.

Sources and further reading