Spot-winged Glider

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pantala hymenaea: //pænˈtɑːlə hɪˈmɛnɪə//

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Summary

Pantala hymenaea, also known as the spot-winged glider, is a migratory dragonfly species native to the Americas, commonly found in various temporary water bodies and noted for its distinct characteristics that differentiate it from similar species.

Physical Characteristics

43-51 mm length; robust with a cylindrical abdomen; broad hindwings; mottled gray-brown abdomen; round spot at base of hindwings, small dark brown spot on hindwings; red eyes and face in breeding males; diagonal white marking on thorax in females and immatures.

Identification Tips

Similar to Wandering Glider, but abdomen is more tapered and mottled gray-brown; characteristic round spot at base of hindwings.

Habitat

Open areas with temporary ponds, including brackish waters; breeding occurs in temporary wetlands, flooded areas, pools, and garden ponds.

Distribution

Much of North America, Central and South America, Galapagos; ranges northward into Canada; observed in six provinces in Canada and 45 states in the United States.

Diet

Predatory on other insects, particularly Anopheles freeborni (western malaria mosquito).

Life Cycle

Larval development is rapid, may be as short as five weeks; likely breeds in all occupied territory except British Columbia and Manitoba, where it is probably a vagrant.

Reproduction

Breeding likely occurs in temporary wetlands, with the absence of fish being crucial for successful breeding.

Conservation Status

Least concern (IUCN).

Ecosystem Role

Predator of other insects, playing a role in controlling mosquito populations.

Similar Taxa

• Pantala flavescens (Wandering Glider)

Tags

• dragonfly
• Pantala hymenaea
• spot-winged glider
• Libellulidae
• migratory species
• predator
• North America