Balkan emerald dragonfly
| Balkan emerald dragonfly | ||||||||||||
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Newly hatched Balkan emerald dragonfly next to her exuviae |
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| Scientific name | ||||||||||||
| Somatochlora meridionalis | ||||||||||||
| Nielsen , 1935 |
The Balkan emerald dragonfly ( Somatochlora meridionalis ) is a species of dragonfly from the family of falcon dragonflies (Corduliidae), which belong to the large dragonflies (Anisoptera).
features
Adult traits
The Balkan emerald dragonfly is very similar to the shiny emerald dragonfly ( S. metallica ). Like this, it reaches a body length of about 60 millimeters with an abdomen about 40 millimeters long and a wingspan of the hind wings in the male of about 35 millimeters. The body is emerald green, the eyes are bright apple green in color. The thorax is metallic green, but unlike the shiny emerald dragonfly, the sides of the thorax have an elongated, dull yellow spot. The base of the wing is colorless ( hyaline ) in the males . In contrast to the comparative species, the pterostigma is deep black and slightly smaller. In females, the hind wing bases are bright yellow, but the anal areas are translucent. Other distinguishing features concern details of the females' abdominal coloration.
Larval features
The larvae reach a maximum length of 22 to 24 millimeters (corresponds to the length of the exuvia ) and are very similar to those of the Bulgarian emerald dragonfly ( S. borisi ) and the shiny emerald dragonfly. In contrast to the first, they have a thorn on segment 3 instead of a small tuft of hair. The dorsal spine on segment 9 corresponds in length to that on segment 8 and protrudes beyond the rear edge of the 10th segment. The side spines of segment 9 are significantly longer than those of segment 8 and their tip extends over half of the cerci .
distribution and habitat
The distribution area of the Balkan emerald dragonfly is limited to several separate areas in south and south-east Europe from south-east France via Italy to Greece and Turkey and in the north to Slovakia. The reproduction and larval habitats are in the area of streams and rivers with shady overgrowths or in forests at heights below 600 m above sea level. They prefer cool, shaded areas with a high oxygen content and a weakly alkaline pH value.
Way of life
Very few statements are available about the behavior of the species. The males behave in a similar way to other emerald dragonflies and quietly patrol in search of females over 30 to 50 meters long stretches at a height of 80 centimeters above the water. They mainly stay in the shade and actively avoid sunny spots. Encounters with other males can lead to rival fights.
The mating begins above the water, after which the pairs will likely fly on tree branches. The eggs are deposited in protected areas, including in moss and mud outside the open water.
Danger
Due to the controversial species status and the lack of a basis for assessment, there is no risk assessment of the Balkan emerald dragonfly. A risk in well-studied areas, especially in Slovenia, is not assumed.
literature
- Hansruedie Wildermuth: Europe's falcon dragonflies. Neue Brehm-Bücherei Volume 653, Westarp Sciences Hohenwarsleben 2008; Pp. 421-427. ISBN 978-3-89432-896-2 .