Cruisers

Macromiidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Odonata
Suborder: Anisoptera
Family: Macromiidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Macromiidae: /ˌmækroʊˈmaɪ.i.aɪdiː/

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

Images

Macromia flinti by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Macromia illinoiensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Macromia alleghaniensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

The family Macromiidae, known as cruisers, is a group of dragonflies characterized by their unique flight patterns over water and their green eyes. This family contains four genera and 125 species worldwide.

Physical Characteristics

Cruisers are similar in size to Aeshnidae, but their eyes are green and just barely meet at the top of the head.

Identification Tips

Look for the green eyes and the characteristic flight pattern over bodies of water.

Habitat

Naiads are found in rivers, streams, and lakes where there is water movement.

Distribution

Worldwide; Macromia is cosmopolitan, while Didymops is found in the Nearctic region.

Diet

Naiads primarily eat mosquito larvae, freshwater shrimp, fish, and tadpoles.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid by dipping the abdomen in the water; naiads hatch after about two weeks.

Reproduction

Females lay their eggs without the presence of a male, as they lack an ovipositor.

Ecosystem Role

Naiads play a role in aquatic ecosystems by preying on various invertebrates and small fish.

Evolution

Traditionally considered a subfamily of Corduliidae, Macromiidae contains 125 species worldwide.