Brechmorhoga
Kirby, 1894
clubskimmers
Species Guides
2- Brechmorhoga mendax(Pale-faced Clubskimmer)
- Brechmorhoga praecox(slender clubskimmer)
Brechmorhoga is a of in the Libellulidae, commonly called clubskimmers due to their widened abdominal segments resembling those of clubtail dragonflies (Gomphidae). The genus was established by Kirby in 1894 and contains approximately 16 distributed in the Americas. Members can be distinguished from true clubtails by their contiguous , a characteristic feature of skimmers. The genus includes notable species such as the pale-faced clubskimmer (B. mendax), masked clubskimmer (B. pertinax), and slender clubskimmer (B. praecox).
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Brechmorhoga: //brɛkmoʊˈroʊɡə//
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Identification
Distinguished from superficially similar clubtails ( Gomphidae) by the contiguous meeting at the top of the ; clubtails have eyes widely separated. The clubbed is less pronounced than in most Gomphidae. Within Libellulidae, the combination of clubbed abdomen and contiguous eyes is diagnostic for this .
Images
Appearance
Medium to large with robust bodies and distinctly widened terminal abdominal segments, creating a club-like appearance. meet dorsally at a broad point, distinguishing them from clubtails (Gomphidae) which have separated eyes. Wings are typically clear or lightly marked. Coloration varies by , with some exhibiting pale facial markings.
Habitat
Associated with flowing water , particularly rivers and streams. One (B. mendax) has been documented along the Middle Fork of the Gila River in New Mexico, suggesting preference for canyon stream environments.
Distribution
New World distribution, primarily in the Americas. Records from Colombia; the Lesser Antilles including Grenada; and southwestern United States (New Mexico). Taxonomic revisions indicate presence in the West Indies with specific documentation from the Lesser Antilles.
Behavior
Perches on vegetation near water. One observation describes a male B. mendax perching after being followed in , suggesting territorial or site-faithful typical of many libellulid .
Similar Taxa
- Gomphidae (clubtails)Similar clubbed shape, but distinguished by separated that do not meet dorsally
- Other LibellulidaeMost lack the pronounced abdominal club characteristic of Brechmorhoga
More Details
Taxonomic history
The was established by Kirby in 1894. Recent taxonomic work has synonymized Brechmorhoga archboldi with B. praecox grenadensis, reducing the number of recognized in the Lesser Antilles.