Leucorrhinia proxima

Calvert, 1890

Belted Whiteface, Red-waisted Whiteface

Leucorrhinia proxima, known as the belted whiteface or red-waisted whiteface, is a in the Libellulidae. It occurs across and temperate regions of North America, from Alaska through Canada to the northern United States. The refers to distinctive pale markings on the and reddish coloration at the base.

Leucorrhinia proxima by (c) Nick Block, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nick Block. Used under a CC-BY license.

Leucorrhinia proxima by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Leucorrhinia proxima: //luː.kɔːˈrɪ.ni.ə ˈprɒk.sɪ.mə//

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Identification

The can be distinguished from by the combination of a pale (white or cream) and reddish coloration at the base of the . The specific epithet "proxima" and "belted whiteface" and "red-waisted whiteface" suggest these diagnostic color patterns. It is smaller than many Libellulidae species, with a compact body typical of the Leucorrhinia.

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Distribution

Found across Canada from Alaska eastward, and south to northern parts of the United States. Records include Vermont and other northern U.S. states. The range spans and temperate zones of North America.

Ecological Role

As a member of the suborder Anisoptera (dragonflies), are aerial that capture flying insects. The contributes to insect in freshwater and adjacent terrestrial .

Similar Taxa

Leucorrhinia intactaBoth share the Leucorrhinia and occur in similar North American . L. intacta (dot-tailed whiteface) differs in having a distinct dot at the tip rather than the reddish waist and belted pattern of L. proxima.
Other LibellulidaeMany skimmers in the Libellulidae overlap in range and general body plan. L. proxima is distinguished by its smaller size, compact build, and the specific and abdominal coloration referenced in its .

More Details

Nomenclature

The was described by Philip Powell Calvert in 1890. The specific epithet "proxima" (Latin for "nearest") may refer to its similarity to related species. The emphasize the pale facial markings ("whiteface") and reddish abdominal base ("red-waisted" or "belted").