Meadowhawks

Sympetrum

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Odonata
Suborder: Anisoptera
Family: Libellulidae
Genus: Sympetrum

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sympetrum: /sɪmˈpɛtrəm/

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

Images

Sympetrum (Tarnetrum) corruptum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sympetrum internum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sympetrum costiferum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sympetrum ambiguum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sympetrum (Tarnetrum) illotum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Sympetrum is a genus of dragonflies known as darters in the UK and meadowhawks in North America, encompassing over 50 species, primarily found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

Physical Characteristics

Small to medium-sized skimmer dragonflies; commonly yellow-gold as juveniles; mature males and some females may become bright red.

Identification Tips

Photos of the hamuli (on males) or subgenital plate (on females) are necessary for confirmation of some species.

Habitat

Breeding occurs in ponds; foraging typically over meadows.

Distribution

Predominantly in the temperate zone of the Northern Hemisphere; 15 species are native to North America; none are native to Australia.

Diet

Typically feed on smaller insects while in flight.

Life Cycle

Life cycle includes a series of aquatic nymph stages followed by emergence into adults.

Reproduction

Breeding occurs in ponds during late summer and autumn.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of smaller insects, contributing to pest control.