A species of dragonfly native to North America, belonging to the emerald family (Corduliidae), characterized by metallic green body coloration and significant ecological role in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
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ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Freshwater environments including lakes, ponds, slow-moving streams, and wetlands across temperate regions of North America, particularly in forested and mountainous areas with adequate water resources.
Ecological Role
Critical predator in aquatic food webs, controlling insect populations during larval and adult stages; serves as bioindicator of water quality and ecosystem health.
Morphology
SKIN COATMetallic green exoskeleton with bronze-green iridescent appearance
LIMBS WINGSFour transparent, membranous wings with dark veination, strong flight muscles enabling agile aerial hunting
HEAD SENSORYLarge compound eyes, short antennae, powerful mandibles for predation
BODY STRUCTUREElongated body measuring approximately 50-65 mm in length, with robust thorax and segmented abdomen
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: USFWS Mountain-Prairie
