Aquatic-vegetation
Guides
Donacia subtilis
Donacia subtilis is a leaf beetle in the subfamily Donaciinae, commonly known as the aquatic leaf beetles. Species in this genus are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, typically feeding on submerged or emergent aquatic vegetation. Adults are often found on the leaves of host plants, while larvae develop in the roots and stems of aquatic plants. The species has been recorded across much of northern North America.
Mansonia
Mansonia mosquito
Mansonia is a genus of mosquitoes in the family Culicidae. Adults are large, dark-colored mosquitoes with distinctive iridescent scaling on wings and legs. The genus is notable for its unique larval and pupal biology: immature stages attach to submerged rootlets of aquatic plants using modified siphons to obtain oxygen, rather than surfacing to breathe. Several species serve as vectors of human and animal pathogens, including filarial worms and arboviruses. The genus has a global distribution, with particular abundance in tropical and subtropical regions associated with permanent freshwater habitats.
Rhionaeschna mutata
Spatterdock Darner
Rhionaeschna mutata, commonly known as the spatterdock darner, is a rare and ecologically restricted dragonfly species in the family Aeshnidae. It is found in North America, with specific reproductive habitat requirements that limit its distribution. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population as of 2017. Its common name references its association with spatterdock (Nuphar), a type of aquatic vegetation.