Sunday, July 18, 2010

Moist Woods Ecosystem-Green Darner Dragonfly


Green Darner Dragonfly

Order:Odonata

Family:Aeshbudae

Genus:Anax

Species:A. junius

General Characteristics: Green darners are large, showy dragonflies with silvery iridescent wings. Its' body length of 2 ¼" to 3 ½", bulbous compound eyes, emerald green thorax with a stripe of deep garnet running down the middle of its' blue abdomen, make this dragonfly easy to identify. The adults are strong fliers; pattern of movement is fast in a straight line with double backs of "back and forth." Its' wings move in synchronization. This dragonfly can be seen in early spring through fall. They will rest on vegetation near bodies of water.

Special Adaptations: Adults hunt while airborne over sunny fields and meadows, preying on midges, mosquitoes, Caddisflies and other flying insects. Naiads feed on tadpoles, small fish, and aquatic insects.

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