Libellulidae
Guides
Brachymesia
Tropical Pennants
Brachymesia is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as tropical pennants. The genus contains multiple species distributed across the Americas, with B. gravida restricted to the United States and other species occurring throughout South America, the West Indies, and southern USA states. One species, B. herbida, has been studied in insular populations where it exhibits distinct behavioral patterns compared to sympatric libellulids.
Brachymesia gravida
Four-spotted Pennant
Brachymesia gravida, commonly known as the four-spotted pennant, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is native to North America and holds a Least Concern conservation status with stable populations. The species is relatively well-documented with over 12,000 observations on iNaturalist.
Brechmorhoga
clubskimmers
Brechmorhoga is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly called clubskimmers due to their widened abdominal segments resembling those of clubtail dragonflies (Gomphidae). The genus was established by Kirby in 1894 and contains approximately 16 species distributed in the Americas. Members can be distinguished from true clubtails by their contiguous eyes, a characteristic feature of skimmers. The genus includes notable species such as the pale-faced clubskimmer (B. mendax), masked clubskimmer (B. pertinax), and slender clubskimmer (B. praecox).
Brechmorhoga mendax
Pale-faced Clubskimmer
Brechmorhoga mendax is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as the Pale-faced Clubskimmer. It is a medium-sized dragonfly with a total length of 52–64 mm. Despite being a skimmer, it resembles clubtails (Gomphidae) in appearance, though its eyes meet at the top of the head—a definitive skimmer characteristic. The species has been documented in riverine habitats in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Cannaphila
narrow-winged skimmers, Convict Skimmers
Small Neotropical genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae. Contains three species: C. insularis (with subspecies C. i. insularis and C. i. funerea), C. mortoni, and C. vibex. One species, C. insularis, extends into North America. Adults are commonly called narrow-winged skimmers.
Celithemis amanda
Amanda's Pennant
Celithemis amanda, commonly known as Amanda's Pennant, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is native to the southeastern United States. The species is part of a genus of small to medium-sized skimmer dragonflies found primarily in North America.
Celithemis elisa
Calico Pennant
Celithemis elisa, commonly known as the calico pennant, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae native to eastern North America. Adults are small to medium-sized (24–34 mm body length) with distinctive brown spots at the wing bases and tips. The species inhabits calm freshwater bodies with emergent vegetation and exhibits spatial partitioning of perching microhabitats when co-occurring with congeners.
Celithemis fasciata
Banded Pennant
Celithemis fasciata, commonly known as the banded pennant, is a dragonfly species in the skimmer family Libellulidae native to the eastern and central United States. Adults are approximately 33 mm in length and are distinguished by extensive, sharply defined black markings on the wings, though wing pattern intensity varies geographically with northern individuals showing less coloration. The species inhabits lentic waters including ponds, lakes, and ditches. Research has demonstrated that individuals exhibit prey preference for small dipteran prey over larger alternatives and engage in prey switching behavior based on relative prey densities.
Celithemis martha
Martha's Pennant
Celithemis martha, commonly known as Martha's Pennant, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It was described by Williamson in 1922 and is named in honor of entomologist Martha Wadsworth. The species occurs in North America and holds a Least Concern conservation status from the IUCN, with a stable population as of 2017.
Celithemis ornata
ornate pennant, faded pennant
Celithemis ornata is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as the ornate pennant or faded pennant. The species is widely distributed across the Americas, occurring in Central America, North America, and South America. It holds a Least Concern conservation status from the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. The species was last reviewed by the IUCN in 2017.
Celithemis verna
double-ringed pennant
Celithemis verna, the double-ringed pennant, is a species of dragonfly (skimmer) in the family Libellulidae. It is native to North America and has been assigned a conservation status of Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population trend. The specific epithet 'verna' refers to spring, suggesting seasonal activity patterns.
Crocothemis
Scarlet Skimmers
Crocothemis is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, subfamily Sympetrinae. Species occur across southern Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Southwest Pacific. These are small to medium-sized dragonflies known for bright coloration in males, ranging from vivid red to rich blue, while females are typically dull brown or orange. They are aerial predators that perch on vegetation near water and fly out to capture prey.
Dythemis
Setwings
Dythemis is a Neotropical genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as Setwings. The genus contains seven species. A 2011 taxonomic revision proposed that D. multipunctata be reclassified as a subspecies of D. sterilis, with mainland populations previously identified as D. multipunctata reassigned to D. nigra.
Dythemis fugax
Checkered Setwing
Dythemis fugax, commonly known as the checkered setwing, is a dragonfly species in the skimmer family Libellulidae. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The species holds a stable population with no immediate conservation concerns.
Dythemis maya
Mayan Setwing
Dythemis maya, commonly known as the Mayan Setwing, is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It occurs in Central America and North America. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival; this status was last reviewed in 2017.
Dythemis nigrescens
Black Setwing
Dythemis nigrescens, commonly known as the black setwing, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It occurs across Central America and North America, with documented observations concentrated in the southwestern United States and Mexico. The species holds a least concern conservation status with stable populations. The common name refers to its dark wing coloration, a distinctive feature among setwings in the genus Dythemis.
Erythemis collocata
Western pondhawk
Erythemis collocata, the western pondhawk, is a dragonfly in the family Libellulidae native to western North America. Adults are predatory, specializing in capturing flying insects. The species has been documented feeding on the western malaria mosquito (Anopheles freeborni), particularly at dusk when these mosquitoes form mating swarms. It employs both active pursuit and sit-and-wait hunting strategies.
Erythemis vesiculosa
Great Pondhawk
Erythemis vesiculosa, commonly known as the great pondhawk, is a dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is distributed throughout the Americas, ranging from the southern United States through Central and South America. The species has been documented in insular populations, including the Galápagos Islands, where it exhibits behavioral adaptations to species-poor communities.
Erythrodiplax
Dragonlets
Erythrodiplax is a large Neotropical genus of small to medium-sized dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as dragonlets. The genus contains numerous species distributed across the Americas, with some members exhibiting unique ecological adaptations. Erythrodiplax berenice, the Seaside Dragonlet, is the only odonate known to develop in saline water, tolerating salinities up to 48%. Species within this genus display diverse reproductive behaviors, with males exhibiting territorial or satellite strategies and engaging in mate guarding during oviposition.
Erythrodiplax basifusca
plateau dragonlet
Erythrodiplax basifusca, commonly known as the plateau dragonlet, is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is found in Central America and North America, with distribution records from regions including Oaxaca. The species has been observed in at least 2002 iNaturalist records. The IUCN lists this species as Least Concern (LC) with a stable population, a status reviewed in 2017.
Erythrodiplax berenice
Seaside Dragonlet
Erythrodiplax berenice, the seaside dragonlet, is a small dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is the only dragonfly in the western hemisphere capable of breeding in seawater, with nymphs tolerating salinities up to 260% of normal seawater concentration. The species inhabits coastal salt marshes, mangrove swamps, and alkaline lakes along the Atlantic coast of North America.
Erythrodiplax fervida
Red-mantled Dragonlet
Erythrodiplax fervida, commonly known as the Red-mantled Dragonlet, is a small dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. The species occurs in the Caribbean and South America, with records from Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico. It is one of five Antillean Erythrodiplax species found in Cuba. The last instar larva was formally described in 2007, filling a gap in the taxonomic knowledge of Cuban dragonflies. The IUCN lists the species as Least Concern with a stable population.
Idiataphe
Metallic Pennants
Idiataphe is a genus of medium-sized dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as metallic pennants. Species range from 34–42 mm in length. The genus occurs from northeastern Argentina through Brazil and the Antilles to Florida. Four species are currently recognized, including the metallic pennant (I. cubensis).
Idiataphe cubensis
metallic pennant
Idiataphe cubensis, known as the metallic pennant, is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is widely distributed across the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. The species holds a stable population and is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Ladona
Corporals
Ladona is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as corporals. Molecular phylogenetic evidence supports its status as a monophyletic lineage distinct from the closely related genera Libellula and Plathemis. The genus contains three recognized species distributed in the Nearctic region. Historical taxonomic debate has centered on whether Ladona should be treated as a separate genus, subgenus, or synonym of Libellula.
Leucorrhinia
whitefaces
Leucorrhinia is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as whitefaces due to their distinctive pale frons. The genus name derives from Greek 'leuco' (white) and 'rhinus' (nose). Species within this genus are associated with wetland habitats, particularly acidic bog pools with Sphagnum moss. Several species are of conservation concern due to specialized habitat requirements and vulnerability to habitat degradation.
Leucorrhinia borealis
Boreal Whiteface
Leucorrhinia borealis, commonly known as the boreal whiteface, is a species of dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae. The species is found across North America and is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable population. As a member of the genus Leucorrhinia, it belongs to a group of small to medium-sized dragonflies often associated with northern or boreal habitats.
Leucorrhinia frigida
Frosted Whiteface
Leucorrhinia frigida, commonly known as the frosted whiteface, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is found in northeastern North America, including the northeastern United States and southern Canada. The species has been documented as a host for parasitic mites, with research showing distinct patterns of mite infestation correlated with host age and behavior.
Leucorrhinia glacialis
crimson-ringed whiteface
Leucorrhinia glacialis, the crimson-ringed whiteface, is a dragonfly species in the skimmer family Libellulidae. It is found in North America, with disjunct populations in the Appalachian Mountains. The species has been assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN with stable populations.
Leucorrhinia hudsonica
Hudsonian Whiteface
Leucorrhinia hudsonica, the Hudsonian Whiteface, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. Its common name derives from its association with the Hudson Bay region. The species has disjunct, regionally rare populations in the Appalachian Mountains. As a member of the genus Leucorrhinia, it shares characteristics with other whiteface dragonflies, including the distinctive pale facial coloration that gives the group its common name.
Libellula cyanea
Spangled Skimmer
Libellula cyanea, commonly known as the spangled skimmer, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae native to the United States. Males exhibit a blue thorax and abdomen, while females are brown with yellow stripes. Both sexes have clear wings with brown wing tips.
Libellula flavida
Yellow-sided Skimmer
Libellula flavida, the yellow-sided skimmer, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae found in North America. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. Like other members of its genus, it is an aerial predator as an adult and aquatic as a larva.
Libellula gaigei
Libellula gaigei is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae, described by Gloyd in 1938. As a member of the genus Libellula, it belongs to a diverse group of dragonflies commonly known as skimmers. The species is accepted in current taxonomic databases but appears to be poorly documented in the available literature.
Macrodiplax
Coastal Pennants
Macrodiplax is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as Coastal Pennants. The genus contains only two species and is distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with the notable exception of Africa. Members of this genus are characterized by their coastal habitat preferences and distinctive wing markings.
Macrodiplax balteata
Marl Pennant
Macrodiplax balteata, commonly known as the Marl Pennant, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is distributed across the southern United States, the Caribbean, and South America. The species was originally described by Hagen in 1861 as Tetragoneuria balteata. As a member of the skimmer family, it is associated with aquatic habitats where its larvae develop.
Macrothemis imitans
ivory-striped sylph
Macrothemis imitans, commonly known as the ivory-striped sylph, is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. The species is widely distributed across the Americas, with records from North, Central, and South America. It is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats identified. Two subspecies are recognized: M. i. imitans and M. i. leucozona.
Miathyria marcella
hyacinth glider
Miathyria marcella, commonly known as the hyacinth glider, is a skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. The species has a broad distribution across the Americas, ranging from the Caribbean through Central and North America to South America. Its IUCN conservation status is Least Concern (LC), with a stable population last assessed in 2017. Larvae have been documented in wetlands of Northern Colombia, where their distribution has been studied in relation to water quality parameters.
Micrathyria aequalis
spot-tailed dasher
Micrathyria aequalis, commonly known as the spot-tailed dasher, is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is widely distributed across the Caribbean Sea, Central America, North America, and South America. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. The IUCN status was last reviewed in 2017.
Micrathyria hagenii
Thornbush Dasher
Micrathyria hagenii, commonly known as the thornbush dasher, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is found across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival.
Orthemis
An undescribed species in the dragonfly genus Orthemis, recognized as distinct from described congeners but not yet formally named. The genus Orthemis is part of the skimmer family Libellulidae, with most described species occurring in the Neotropical region. This taxon represents one of many insect species awaiting formal taxonomic description.
Orthemis
Tropical King Skimmers
Orthemis is a genus of large dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as Tropical King Skimmers. The genus is primarily Neotropical in distribution, with approximately 28 described species. Males are typically red in coloration while females are brown. The genus exhibits notable chromosomal diversity, including the highest chromosome number recorded in Odonata (2n=41 in O. nodiplaga) and a neo-XY sex-determination system in O. ambinigra. The complete life cycle has been described for O. ferruginea, which includes 17 larval instars.
Orthemis discolor
carmine skimmer, orange-bellied skimmer
Orthemis discolor is a medium-sized dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae, commonly known as the carmine skimmer or orange-bellied skimmer. It is widely distributed across the Americas, occurring from the southern United States through Central America to South America. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable population. It is a sibling species to Orthemis ferruginea (roseate skimmer), with which it has been historically confused; the two are distinguished primarily by coloration and subtle structural differences in females.
Orthemis ferruginea
Roseate Skimmer
A dragonfly in the family Libellulidae native to the Americas, with distribution extending from the United States to Brazil. Mature males are distinctive for their hot pink coloration. The species is common and widespread, and has been introduced to Hawaii. First complete life cycle description for a Mexican odonate documented 17 larval instars.
Paltothemis
Rock Skimmers
Paltothemis is a genus of skimmer dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, established by Karsch in 1890. The genus contains at least three described species, commonly known as Rock Skimmers. The best-known species, Paltothemis lineatipes (Red Rock Skimmer), has been studied for its variable mating system, which shifts between territorial defense and alternative strategies depending on male population density. Members of this genus are associated with rocky stream habitats in western North America.
Pantala hymenaea
spot-winged glider
Pantala hymenaea, commonly known as the spot-winged glider, is a migratory dragonfly in the family Libellulidae native to the Americas. It is closely related to and resembles the wandering glider (Pantala flavescens), but is distinguished by a dark basal spot on the hindwing. The species is a strong flier with a very large range across North, Central, and South America, and has been documented as one of five migratory dragonfly species monitored by the Migratory Dragonfly Partnership in North America.
Perithemis
Amberwings
Perithemis is a genus of small dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as amberwings. Males are distinguished by their amber-colored wings. The genus includes approximately 12 described species distributed in the New World, with notable species including the Eastern Amberwing (P. tenera) and the Mexican Amberwing (P. intensa).
Perithemis domitia
slough amberwing
Perithemis domitia, commonly known as the slough amberwing, is a small skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is distributed across a broad geographic range including the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable population.
Plathemis lydia
Common Whitetail, Long-tailed Skimmer
Plathemis lydia, commonly known as the Common Whitetail or Long-tailed Skimmer, is a widespread dragonfly species across North America. The species exhibits striking sexual dimorphism: males possess a conspicuous white abdomen and brownish-black wing bands, while females have a brown body with different wing spot patterns. Research has documented significant wing morphometric differences between sexes, with males showing adaptations for faster flight and higher acceleration capacity, likely related to territorial behavior and predator evasion. The species inhabits a variety of freshwater habitats and is among the most frequently observed dragonflies in North America with over 110,000 iNaturalist records.
Plathemis subornata
Desert Whitetail
Plathemis subornata, commonly known as the Desert Whitetail, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is native to arid regions of western North America, where it frequents ponds, streams, and other water bodies in desert and semi-desert habitats. The species is often placed in the genus Libellula by some authorities. Adults are active during warmer months and are frequently observed perching on rocks or vegetation near water.
Pseudoleon superbus
Filigree Skimmer
A subtropical dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae and sole member of its genus. Males have predominantly blackish wings with distinctive filigree-like venation patterns; females display reduced black markings in a reticulated pattern. The species occupies a disjunct distribution, with core populations in the southwestern United States and Mexico, and scattered northern records including Colorado. It frequents rocky streams and rivers with slow to moderate current in open, often arid settings.
Sympetrum corruptum
Variegated Meadowhawk
Sympetrum corruptum, commonly known as the Variegated Meadowhawk, is a migratory dragonfly native to North America. It is one of five species tracked by the Migratory Dragonfly Partnership due to its seasonal north-south movements. Adults are notable for their distinctive red-marked coloration and persistence late into autumn, often being the last active dragonflies in many areas. The species is abundant in diverse habitats including wetlands, grasslands, and even agricultural areas like lavender fields.
Sympetrum costiferum
Saffron-winged Meadowhawk
Sympetrum costiferum, the saffron-winged meadowhawk, is a small dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae. It is distinguished by yellowish-brown to pale red abdomen coloration and distinctive saffron-colored wing stripes in juveniles and females. The species occurs across northern and central North America and is notably difficult to distinguish from closely related meadowhawk species.
Sympetrum obtrusum
White-faced Meadowhawk
Sympetrum obtrusum, the White-faced Meadowhawk, is a dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. Adult males are distinguished by a pure white face and red bodies. The species is found in the northern United States and southern Ontario. Research has documented physiological variation in postcopulatory mate-guarding behavior in this species.
Sympetrum semicinctum semicinctum
Sympetrum semicinctum semicinctum is a subspecies of meadowhawk dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. As a member of the genus Sympetrum, it shares characteristics typical of meadowhawks, including relatively small size and late-season flight activity. The nominate subspecies designation indicates this is the type subspecies of the species Sympetrum semicinctum. Like other Sympetrum species, it undergoes incomplete metamorphosis with aquatic nymphal stages and aerial adult predation.
Sympetrum vicinum
Autumn Meadowhawk, Yellow-legged Meadowhawk
Sympetrum vicinum is a small dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae, commonly known as the Autumn Meadowhawk or Yellow-legged Meadowhawk. Adults measure 26–35 mm in length and are distinguished by their yellow legs and late-season flight period. This species exhibits two disjunct populations in North America—one in the eastern United States and Canada, and another in the Pacific Northwest. It is notable for flying later into autumn than any other dragonfly species in its western range, with observations extending into November.
Tauriphila argo
Arch-tipped Glider
Tauriphila argo, commonly known as the arch-tipped glider, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is found in South America. The species was first described by Hagen in 1869. Its IUCN conservation status is Least Concern (LC), with a stable population and no immediate threats to survival; this status was last reviewed in 2017.
Tauriphila australis
Garnet Glider
Tauriphila australis, commonly known as the Garnet Glider, is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae. It is distributed across the Americas, with records from North America, Middle America, the Caribbean, and South America. The species was described by Hagen in 1867. As a member of the skimmer family, it likely exhibits typical libellulid characteristics including broad wings and perching behavior, though specific ecological details remain limited in available sources.
Tauriphila azteca
Aztec Glider
Tauriphila azteca, commonly known as the Aztec Glider, is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. The species was first described by Calvert in 1906 and is distributed across Central America and North America. As a member of the genus Tauriphila, it belongs to a group of dragonflies commonly referred to as gliders.
Tholymis
Tholymis is a genus of medium-sized dragonflies in the family Libellulidae. Species are tropical in distribution and exhibit crepuscular activity patterns, being most active at dawn and dusk. The genus was established by Hagen in 1867.
Tholymis citrina
evening skimmer
Tholymis citrina, the evening skimmer, is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It occurs across a broad geographic range spanning the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival. The IUCN status was last reviewed in 2017.
Tramea
Saddlebags, Saddlebags Gliders, Saddlebag Gliders
Tramea is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae, commonly called saddlebags or saddlebags gliders. Species are distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. They are characterized by colored bases on otherwise translucent hindwings that create the visual impression of carrying bags near the abdomen base. Members are medium to relatively large dragonflies known for sustained gliding flight and infrequent perching.
Tramea abdominalis
Vermilion Saddlebags, vermilion saddlebag
Tramea abdominalis, commonly known as the vermilion saddlebags, is a species of skimmer dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is widely distributed across the Caribbean, Central America, North America, Oceania, and South America. The species has been assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival.
Tramea carolina
Carolina Saddlebags
Tramea carolina, commonly known as the Carolina saddlebags, is a dragonfly species native to eastern North America. Adults are recognized by their distinctive wing markings and colored abdominal segments. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in coloration, with males displaying brighter red tones. It occupies a range of aquatic habitats and has been observed year-round in southern portions of its range.
Tramea darwini
Striped Saddlebags
Tramea darwini is a dragonfly species in the family Libellulidae, commonly known as the Striped Saddlebags. An insular population has been documented exhibiting exceptional behavioral diversity in oviposition strategies, with four distinct modes recorded—more than any other studied population of the genus. This species belongs to a genus characterized by saddlebag-like markings on the hindwings.
Tramea insularis
Antillean saddlebags
Tramea insularis, the Antillean saddlebags, is a species of dragonfly in the skimmer family Libellulidae. It is found across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN with a stable population and no immediate threats to its survival.