Sympetrum pallipes

(Hagen, 1874)

Striped Meadowhawk

Sympetrum pallipes, commonly known as the striped meadowhawk, is a of skimmer in the . It is found across North America. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable , last reviewed in 2017. As a member of the Sympetrum, it shares characteristics with other meadowhawks, including late-season activity.

Sympetrum pallipes by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Sympetrum pallipes by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Striped Meadowhawk (15404305161) by Katja Schulz from Washington, D. C., USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sympetrum pallipes: /sɪmˈpɛtrəm ˈpælɪpiːz/

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

Identification

The striped meadowhawk can be distinguished from other Sympetrum by its namesake striping pattern. Like other meadowhawks in the , it is relatively small-bodied compared to other groups. hold their horizontally when at rest, characteristic of the (true dragonflies) suborder. Specific distinguishing features from such as Sympetrum corruptum ( meadowhawk) or Sympetrum madidum (red-veined meadowhawk) require closer examination of thoracic patterning and abdominal coloration.

Images

Distribution

North America. Specific range details within the continent are not documented in available sources.

Seasonality

As a meadowhawk , S. pallipes likely exhibits late-season activity typical of the Sympetrum, with active into autumn. One observation from Colorado in early October suggests persistence late in the season.

Life Cycle

As an odonate, S. pallipes undergoes with three stages: , (aquatic), and . The aquatic nymph stage duration is unknown for this . Nymphs possess a prehensile, foldable lower lip used for capturing .

Human Relevance

The has been featured in educational materials, including coloring books used for public outreach at museum events. It serves as an example of skimmer dragonflies in North American biodiversity education.

Similar Taxa

  • Sympetrum corruptum meadowhawk; similar size and preferences, distinguished by patterning details
  • Sympetrum madidumRed-veined meadowhawk; another North American with overlapping range
  • Sympetrum danaeBlack darter; European showing -level similarities in and
  • Sympetrum striolatumCommon darter; European with similar meadowhawk characteristics

More Details

Taxonomic History

Originally described as Diplax pallipes by Hagen in 1874, later transferred to Sympetrum.

Conservation Status

IUCN Least Concern () as of 2017 review, with stable trend and no immediate threats identified.

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Sources and further reading