Dancers
Argia
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Odonata
- Suborder: Zygoptera
- Family: Coenagrionidae
- Genus: Argia
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Argia: //ˈɑːrdʒiə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Argia is a large genus of damselflies known for their distinctive flight patterns and vibrant coloration. They are predominantly found near flowing water in the Western Hemisphere and are active predators of flying insects.
Physical Characteristics
The Argia damselflies are characterized by their distinctive jerky pattern of flight, contrasting with the straightforward flight of bluets and forktails. Males typically display a combination of black and blue coloration, with some species exhibiting red eyes or a copper-colored thorax. They often have humeral stripes that can be notched, forked at the end, or narrowed in the center. Their wings are broad near the base with short petioles.
Identification Tips
Argia species can be distinguished from similarly colored bluets by their unique flight patterns. Males usually feature black and blue colors but may also present other color morphs such as red eyes or varying thoracic colors.
Habitat
Dancers are often found in open areas near flowing water, such as streams and rivers.
Distribution
The Argia genus is primarily distributed across the Western Hemisphere.
Diet
Argia damselflies are active predators that catch flying insects on the wing rather than targeting sedentary prey.
Ecosystem Role
As predators, Argia damselflies play a role in controlling insect populations, contributing to the balance of their aquatic ecosystems.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Though named 'dancers' from the Greek word for laziness, they are actually active and alert insectivores.
Tags
- damselflies
- Argia
- Coenagrionidae
- Odonata
- Zygoptera