Protoneura

Selys in Sagra, 1857

Slender Threadtails

Species Guides

1

Protoneura is a of commonly known as slender threadtails. The genus comprises approximately 20 described distributed primarily in the Neotropical region. Species-level identification often relies on color patterns and structural details of the and appendages.

Protoneura cara by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Protoneura cara poligono distribución potencial by Julián PR. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.Protoneura cara 18648935 by Laura Gaudette. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Protoneura: /ˌproʊtoʊˈnʊərə/

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Identification

in this are distinguished by their extremely slender, thread-like —narrower than most coenagrionoid . The genus is characterized by reduced wing venation, with fewer antenodal crossveins than related genera. Specific identification requires examination of male anal appendages and female mesostigmal plates.

Images

Distribution

Neotropical region, with records from Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. Specific distribution varies by .

Similar Taxa

  • NosostictaAlso threadtail with slender , but Nososticta generally have more extensive wing venation and different male appendage structure.
  • ElattoneuraSimilar slender build, but Elattoneura typically show different color patterns and occur in the Afrotropical and Oriental regions rather than the Neotropics.

More Details

Family placement

Protoneura has been placed in both Coenagrionidae and Protoneuridae by different authorities. Current sources recognize Protoneuridae as a distinct , though some databases retain it within Coenagrionidae.

Sources and further reading