TaxonHub
Northern Emerald

Northern Emerald

Somatochlora arctica

A boreal dragonfly species endemic to cold northern habitats, characterized by its metallic green-bronze coloration and remarkable adaptation to subarctic environments.

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Northern Emerald
Northern Emerald
Northern Emerald
Northern Emerald
Northern Emerald
ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Inhabits tundra, boreal forests, and wetland ecosystems across circumpolar regions of North America and Eurasia, particularly in alpine and subarctic zones with cool, moist conditions.

Ecological Role

Critical pollinator and predatory insect in northern ecosystems, controlling insect populations and serving as a bioindicator of environmental health in fragile arctic and subarctic landscapes.

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Chitinous exoskeleton with minimal pubescence, adapted for thermal regulation in cold environments
  • LIMBS WINGS Four transparent membranous wings with dark veination, wingspan approximately 70-85 mm, strong flight muscles enabling agile aerial hunting
  • HEAD SENSORY Large compound eyes, short antennae, powerful mandibular structures for predation
  • BODY STRUCTURE Slender dragonfly with total body length of 45-55 mm, metallic green-bronze exoskeleton with dark segmentation
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Gouwenaar
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Corduliidae