Ophiogomphus severus
Hagen, 1874
Pale Snaketail
Ophiogomphus severus, commonly known as the pale snaketail, is a in the Gomphidae. It has been recorded in North America, with observations from Colorado documented during bioblitz surveys. The species is part of a characterized by clubbed typical of snaketail dragonflies.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ophiogomphus severus: //ˌɒfi.oʊˈɡɑmfəs ˈsɛvərəs//
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Habitat
Recorded from mixed conifer forest at higher elevations in the foothills of Colorado, as observed during bioblitz surveys at Blodgett Peak Open Space. The specific microhabitat preferences within this forested environment have not been detailed.
Distribution
North America. Specific records include Colorado Springs, Colorado, in the foothills and mountains of the extreme northwest corner of the city. GBIF distribution records indicate presence in North America broadly.
Seasonality
have been observed in June in Colorado, based on bioblitz records from June 16-17, 2017.
Similar Taxa
- Ophiogomphus arizonicusBoth are snaketail in the same with clubbed ; O. arizonicus (Arizona Snaketail) has an almost solid-green that distinguishes it from O. severus
- Ophiogomphus howeiBoth are small snaketail in the same ; O. howei (pygmy snaketail) is notably smaller and has more restricted preferences in forested streams
More Details
Etymology note
The specific epithet 'severus' is shared with Harryplax severus, a marine crab named after Professor Severus Snape from the Harry Potter series. However, Ophiogomphus severus was described in 1874 by Hagen, long before the Harry Potter franchise, so the name has no connection to the fictional character.