Gray Sanddragon

Progomphus borealis

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Odonata
Suborder: Anisoptera
Family: Gomphidae
Genus: Progomphus
Species: borealis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Progomphus borealis: /prəˈɡɒmfəs bɔːˈriːəlɪs/

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Summary

Progomphus borealis, commonly known as the gray sanddragon, is a medium to large dragonfly species in the Gomphidae family, recognized for its distinctive coloration and habitat preference near sandy waters. It plays a significant ecological role as both predator and prey.

Physical Characteristics

Medium to large dragonfly; adults range from 2.25 to 2.44 inches (57 to 62 mm) in length. Face and thorax are grayish to yellowish brown, with a possibly black-marked thorax. Abdomen is black with yellow markings on each segment and swollen at the tip.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic black abdomen with yellow markings. The upturned tip of the abdomen in nymphs and their sandy brown color are also key identification features.

Habitat

Found along sandy streams, rivers, and lakes in desert areas. Nymphs burrow under sandy sediment and swim upstream to escape drought.

Distribution

Found in Arizona, California, Chihuahua, Idaho, Jalisco, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Washington.

Diet

Adults consume soft-bodied flying insects such as mosquitoes, flies, butterflies, moths, mayflies, and flying ants or termites. Nymphs feed on aquatic insects, including mosquito larvae, other fly larvae, mayfly larvae, freshwater shrimp, and occasionally small fish and tadpoles.

Life Cycle

Nymphs emerge as adults during the day, which is unusual for their family. They have a unique respiratory adaptation with an upturned tip of the abdomen used for breathing while burrowed in sand.

Reproduction

Mating occurs before the female lays her eggs by dipping the tip of her abdomen in shallow waters of small streams.

Ecosystem Role

As both nymphs and adults, they play roles in controlling insect populations and serve as prey for larger predators.

Similar Taxa

Common Sanddragon (Progomphus obscurus)