Perithemis tenera

(Say, 1840)

Eastern Amberwing

Perithemis tenera, commonly known as the Eastern Amberwing, is a very small in the Libellulidae, reaching a maximum length of 25 mm. It is notable for being one of the few dragonflies that actively mimics a , with yellow and brown abdominal stripes that deter . The species exhibits territorial , with documented prior residency advantage in territorial disputes. Males have distinctive orange or amber wings, while both sexes display a red pterostigma.

Perithemis tenera by (c) mayfly1963, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by mayfly1963. Used under a CC-BY license.

Perithemis tenera by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Perithemis tenera: //ˌpɛr.ɪˈθɛm.ɪs ˈtɛn.ə.rə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from other small by its extremely small size (under 25 mm), red pterostigma, and in males, the distinctive amber/orange wing coloration. The -mimicking abdominal stripes separate it from other Perithemis . When perched, individuals wiggle their , a behavioral trait that may aid identification.

Images

Habitat

Associated with wetlands, marshes, and bodies of water with emergent vegetation such as cattails. Observed perching on vegetation overhanging water.

Distribution

Eastern United States; ranges through North America, Middle America, and South America based on GBIF records. Present in New Mexico based on field observations.

Seasonality

Active during warmer months; observed in New Mexico in late August.

Life Cycle

typical of Odonata: , larval (naiad), and stages. Specific details not documented in available sources.

Behavior

Territorial; males exhibit fighting with prior residency advantage in territorial disputes. When perched, individuals wiggle their . Active mimicry through coloration and behavior to deter .

Human Relevance

Subject of behavioral research on territoriality; of interest to enthusiasts and photographers due to its small size, mimicry, and approachable nature.

Similar Taxa

Perithemis domitiaOther small Perithemis ; P. tenera distinguished by male amber wing coloration and -mimicking abdominal pattern
Nannothemis bellaAnother of the world's smallest ; P. tenera distinguished by amber wings in males and mimicry

More Details

Wasp Mimicry

One of the few known to actively mimic a , using both coloration (yellow and brown abdominal stripes) and behavioral displays to deter .

Research Significance

Has been studied for territorial and prior residency advantage, contributing to understanding of contest behavior in Odonata.