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Emperor dragonfly

Emperor dragonfly

Anax imperator

A species of Emperors, Also known as -, Dragonfly, Emporer dragonfly

The emperor dragonfly or blue emperor (Anax imperator) is a large species of hawker dragonfly of the family Aeshnidae, averaging 78 millimetres (3.1 in) in length.

General Info About Emperor dragonfly
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Attributes of Emperor dragonfly
Colors
Black
Green
Yellow
Blue
Habitat
They frequently fly high up into the sky in search of prey, which includes butterflies, other Odonata and tadpoles; small prey is eaten while flying. They breed in a variety of aquatic habitats from large ponds to dikes, but they require a plentiful supply of vegetation in the water. The females lay the eggs into plants such as pondweed, and always lay alone. The larvae are very aggressive and are likely to influence the native species composition of colonized freshwater ecosystems. The adult male is highly territorial, and difficult to approach. In the summer months emperor dragonflies are frequent visitors to gardens, being especially prevalent in the southern counties of Great Britain.
Adult Food Sources
Flies, moths, bees, butterflies, other smaller dragonflies
Larva Food Source
Small fish, tadpoles, aquatic insects, mosquito larvae, small crustaceans
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Emperor dragonfly is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Emperor dragonfly typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Emperor dragonfly
This dragonfly has a wide distribution; it is found throughout Africa and through most of Europe, the Arabian Peninsula, and south-western and central Asia. Since 2000, its range has expanded in Europe, both northwards and to higher altitudes.
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Life Cycle of Emperor dragonfly
Egg After deposition by the adult emperor dragonfly, the eggs are typically oval and laid in water or on aquatic plants. They vary in color but often resemble the environment to avoid predation.
Naiad Emerging from the egg, the naiads of emperor dragonfly are aquatic, voracious predators with extendable lower lips to catch prey. They progressively grow by molting, resembling the adult form more with each stage.
Adult Transitioning from the nymph, the adult emperor dragonfly emerges with an elongated body, large multifaceted eyes, and two pairs of translucent wings. The body coloration, usually vibrant, serves in mating and territorial behaviors.
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Predators of Emperor dragonfly Larvae
Frogs, toads, fish, water beetles, birds, other dragonfly species
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Predators of Adult Emperor dragonfly
Birds, spiders, frogs, wasps, bats
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Interesting Facts About Emperor dragonfly
Emperor dragonfly can regulate its body temperature, a rare trait termed 'thermoregulation,' allowing it to inhabit diverse climates and extend activity periods.
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Scientific Classification of Emperor dragonfly
Class
Bugs
Icon allow
Order
Odes
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Family
Darners
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Tips for Finding Emperor dragonfly
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Youth Habitat of Emperor dragonfly
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Emperor dragonfly
Freshwater Habitats, Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Savannas, Mangroves and Coastal Wetlands
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How Can You Attract Emperor dragonfly
There is no specific trap food used to find emperor dragonfly as they are predatory creatures, often found hunting smaller insects near bodies of water.
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Habitat Preferences of Emperor dragonfly Through Different Life Stages
The naiads of emperor dragonfly are aquatic, inhabiting a variety of freshwater habitats ranging from ditches to lakes, where they can often be found among submerged vegetation or debris. Upon emergence, emperor dragonfly undergo their final molt on vegetation near water bodies. Adult emperor dragonfly are highly mobile and may be found in diverse environments but frequently hover over water bodies, including ponds, marshes, and slow-moving rivers where they hunt for prey. To observe the naiads, one must search the underwater foliage or bottom substrates of freshwater systems, while adults are best sought by scanning the skies and shores of such aquatic habitats during warm, sunny days.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Emperor dragonfly
The best time to find adult emperor dragonfly is usually on warm, sunny days from late spring to early fall, when they are most active. Their naiads can be found throughout the year in water bodies, provided they are not frozen.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Emperor dragonfly
Warm and sunny weather with little to no wind is ideal for finding adult emperor dragonfly, as these conditions are favorable for their flight and hunting activities.
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How and Where Can You Find Emperor dragonfly at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of emperor dragonfly are typically laid in water or on aquatic vegetation. To locate them, observe the stems of water plants in ponds or slow-moving waters, especially where adult emperor dragonfly have been seen ovipositing.
Naiad Emperor dragonfly naiads are aquatic and predatory, living in freshwater habitats like ponds, lakes, and sometimes slow-flowing rivers. Search for them by gently sifting through aquatic vegetation or mud at the bottom of these water bodies using a net.
Adult During emergence, emperor dragonfly naiads transition to adults and can be found clinging to vegetation, rocks, or other structures near the water's edge. They are vulnerable during this time and can be observed early in the morning or at dusk when the metamorphosis often occurs.
Adult emperor dragonfly are powerful and agile fliers. Look for them hunting along the edges of bodies of water or patrolling territories, where they are most visible. A sunny spot with minimal wind is often a congregation area for these insects.
Are Emperor dragonfly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Emperor dragonfly
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Moths, Small Insects
Emperor dragonfly is a skilled predator both in its naiad stage in the water, where it feeds voraciously on various aquatic insects, and as an adult in the air. Using their exceptional flying abilities and acute vision, adult emperor dragonfly capture prey mid-flight. Their diet helps control populations of pest species like mosquitoes, making them beneficial for natural pest management.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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