Ophiogomphus anomalus

Harvey, 1898

Extra-striped Snaketail

Ophiogomphus anomalus, commonly known as the extra-striped snaketail, is a in the . It inhabits intermittent rivers across Canada and the United States. The species is one of several North snaketails characterized by their distinctive thoracic patterning and riverine preferences.

Ophiogomphus anomalus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Extra-striped snaketail 9524613 jun 24 2015 by Reuven Martin. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ophiogomphus anomalus: /ˌɒfiəˈɡɒmfəs əˈnɒmələs/

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

Identification

The extra-striped snaketail can be distinguished from other Ophiogomphus by the additional stripes on its that give rise to its . Specific diagnostic features separating it from such as O. howei (pygmy snaketail) and O. arizonicus (Arizona snaketail) require examination of thoracic stripe patterns and abdominal markings. Detailed morphological comparison with snaketail species is necessary for reliable identification.

Images

Habitat

Intermittent rivers. The is associated with riverine systems that experience periodic flow cessation, distinguishing its preferences from those of snaketails requiring clear-flowing streams.

Distribution

Canada and the United States. The has a transcontinental North range spanning multiple provinces and states.

Similar Taxa

Ophiogomphus howeiSimilar small snaketail and riverine , but O. howei is distinguished by its smaller size and different thoracic patterning without the extra stripes characteristic of O. anomalus.
Ophiogomphus arizonicusShares characteristics and river-dwelling habits, but O. arizonicus exhibits a predominantly green rather than the striped pattern of O. anomalus.

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The epithet 'anomalus' (meaning anomalous or abnormal) likely refers to the distinctive extra thoracic stripes that deviate from the typical snaketail pattern. The species was described by Harvey in 1898.

Habitat Specificity

The association with intermittent rivers rather than streams represents a notable ecological differentiation from some , potentially indicating to hydrological variability.