Calopterygidae
Guides
Calopteryx dimidiata
Sparkling Jewelwing
Calopteryx dimidiata, commonly known as the sparkling jewelwing, is a small damselfly species endemic to the eastern and southeastern United States. It is one of the smallest members of the family Calopterygidae, measuring 37–50 mm in length. The species inhabits sandy forest streams with fast-flowing water, particularly acidic streams with abundant riverside vegetation. Adults are active from spring through autumn depending on latitude, with males defending small territories and engaging in ritualized courtship flights.
Hetaerina vulnerata
Canyon Rubyspot
Hetaerina vulnerata, the Canyon Rubyspot, is a broad-winged damselfly in the family Calopterygidae. It inhabits shaded mountain streams at elevations of 550-2000 meters from Colombia through the southwestern United States. The species shows limited dispersal capacity and strong habitat specificity, with populations genetically isolated by unsuitable terrain. Climate change projections suggest increasing habitat fragmentation for this stream-specialist insect.