Libellula forensis

Hagen, 1861

Eight-spotted Skimmer

The eight-spotted skimmer (Libellula forensis) is a in the Libellulidae. It is a medium-sized skimmer native to western North America. Like other dragonflies in the Libellula, it is a predatory with aquatic larvae and aerial . The species is named for the distinctive pattern of spots on its wings.

Libellula forensis by (c) Koji Shiraiwa, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Koji Shiraiwa. Used under a CC-BY license.Libellula forensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Libellula forensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Libellula forensis: /lɪˈbɛl.ju.lə fɔˈrɛn.sɪs/

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Identification

The eight-spotted skimmer can be distinguished from similar Libellula by the presence of eight distinct dark spots on the wings—two on each of the four wings. Males develop (whitish) with age. It differs from the twelve-spotted skimmer (Libellula pulchella) by having fewer wing spots, and from the widow skimmer (Libellula luctuosa) by wing pattern and abdominal coloration.

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Habitat

Associated with ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. Frequents open water with emergent vegetation for perching.

Distribution

Western North America, ranging from British Columbia through Washington, Oregon, and California, and eastward to the Rocky Mountain states.

Seasonality

are active from late spring through summer, with peak periods typically in June through August depending on latitude and elevation.

Diet

capture flying insects including bees, flies, and . Larvae are aquatic feeding on insect larvae, small crustaceans, and other aquatic .

Life Cycle

are laid in or near water. Aquatic nymphs (naiads) develop through multiple instars over one to two years before emerging as . Adults live for several weeks to a few months.

Behavior

are strong fliers that hunt from perches, sallying forth to capture prey. Males are territorial, defending mating territories near water. Both sexes perch conspicuously on vegetation or bare substrates.

Ecological Role

and nymphs function as in aquatic and terrestrial . Nymphs may influence prey in freshwater .

Human Relevance

Serves as a subject for ecological and behavioral research. Occasionally used as an for freshwater quality. Not known to be of agricultural or medical significance.

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Etymology

The specific epithet 'forensis' refers to the forum or marketplace, possibly alluding to the ' tendency to frequent open, exposed areas.

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