Narrow-winged Damselflies

Coenagrionidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Odonata
Suborder: Zygoptera
Family: Coenagrionidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coenagrionidae: //siˌnæɡriˈɒnɪdiː//

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

Images

Argia munda by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Ischnura denticollis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Argia lugens by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Ischnura utahensis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Nehalennia minuta by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Teinobasis ariel by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Coenagrionidae, or narrow-winged damselflies, are the largest family of damselflies with over 1,300 species. They are known for their distinct coloration and clear wings, typically found in wetlands and ponds. They are characterized by specific wing and body features that help in their identification.

Physical Characteristics

Usually have a black pattern; Ground color may be green, blue, yellow, orange, or purple; Narrow, stalked, usually colorless and clear wings; Two antenodal cross veins; Vein M3 arising nearer to nodus than arculus.

Identification Tips

Adults typically hold wings together above body while at rest.

Habitat

Found around various habitats including ponds and wetlands; Females lay eggs among living or dead submerged vegetation, and in some species, even crawl about underwater depositing their eggs.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution; among the most common of damselfly families.

Life Cycle

Nymphs are usually found in debris or among living or dead submerged plant material.

Reproduction

Females lay their eggs in or among submerged vegetation.