Coenagrion resolutum

(Selys, 1876)

taiga bluet

Coenagrion resolutum, commonly known as the taiga bluet, is a in the Coenagrionidae. Males exhibit blue coloration with black markings on abdominal segments 3–5, while females appear greenish-blue to yellowish-green with nearly contiguous black dorsal markings. The has been studied for its larval growth , showing slower development compared to sympatric species like Lestes disjunctus.

Coenagrion resolutum by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Coenagrion resolutum Distribution by Loz (L. B. Tettenborn). Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.

Coenagrion resolutum by Louis. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coenagrion resolutum: /sɪˈnæɡriːˌɒn rɪˈzɔljətəm/

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

Identification

Males are distinguished by blue coloration with black markings covering approximately half the length of abdominal segments 3–5, combined with greenish lateral coloration. Females are greenish-blue or yellowish-green with black abdominal markings that are nearly contiguous. Wingspan ranges 27–33 mm; wings held behind body at rest.

Images

Habitat

forest aquatic in Alberta, Canada; specific microhabitat details not documented in available sources.

Distribution

North America; specifically documented from Alberta, Canada, and Vermont, United States. iNaturalist records suggest broader presence across eastern North America.

Diet

Predatory; nymphs feed in defined feeding areas with aggressive interactions observed around food resources. Specific prey not documented in available sources.

Life Cycle

Larval development requires 10–22 months in natural , substantially longer than sympatric Lestes disjunctus. Growth rates positively related to temperature up to 22.4°C, above which growth rate decreases.

Behavior

Nymphs exhibit aggressive behavioral interactions to exclude conspecifics from feeding areas; dominance status positively associated with feeding area use. Exclusion patterns result from combination of and limited movement rather than strict territoriality. classified as , feeding/aggression, retreat, and defense.

Similar Taxa

Lestes disjunctusSympatric with which C. resolutum is frequently compared in ecological studies; distinguished by faster larval growth rates (70 days vs. 10–22 months), higher optimal growth temperature (28.8°C vs. 22.4°C), and different hunting strategies including active search .
Coenagrionidae (family members)Other narrow-winged damselflies share general body plan and wing posture; C. resolutum distinguished by specific abdominal marking patterns and coloration described for both sexes.