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Common flatwing

Austroargiolestes icteromelas

A species of Flatwings

Both male and female common flatwings look similar, with a long and slender body about 43 mm in length, and a bright metallic-blue colour. They usually rest with their wings flat open, but females sometimes rest with wings folded up. Their antennae are very small, and their compound eyes are comparatively large. Common flatwings do not use their legs for walking, but for capturing other flying insects in the air, like all other dragonflies and damselflies. They can be found along streams and creeks, are seldom found near still water ponds, but are more likely to be found near slow running water. This species likes to rest within a few metres of a creek or stream, in a shaded area, sometimes resting in large groups among plants. They perch on leaves and, when disturbed, fly a short distance. Common flatwings tolerate people close to them.

General Info About Common flatwing
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Attributes of Common flatwing
Habitat
The common flatwing is found in eastern Australia: in Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria.
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, mayflies
Larva Food Source
Small aquatic invertebrates, larval stages of insects, tadpoles, zooplankton, other smaller damselfly larvae
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Life Cycle of Common flatwing
Egg The egg of common flatwing is typically oval and laid in water or on vegetation near water. It is camouflaged and remains stationary until hatching time, relying on the surrounding environment for protection.
Naiad During this aquatic stage, the naiad of common flatwing undergoes several molts as it grows. It bears a resemblance to the adult but lacks wings and has external gills for underwater breathing. Predation is a key behavior.
Adult Emerging from the nymph stage, the adult common flatwing's final form features elongated bodies, two pairs of wings, and compound eyes. Adults have vibrant colors for mating displays and are capable of agile flight.
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Predators of Adult Common flatwing
Birds, spiders, frogs, dragonflies, wasps
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Interesting Facts About Common flatwing
Common flatwing can remain in their larval stage for several years, which contrasts with their relatively short adult life span.
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Scientific Classification of Common flatwing
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Flatwings
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Tips for Finding Common flatwing
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Youth Habitat of Common flatwing
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Common flatwing
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats
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How Can You Attract Common flatwing
To find common flatwing, a specific trap or bait is generally not applicable as they are predatory creatures at all stages of life, feeding on other insects rather than being lured by conventional bait.
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Habitat Preferences of Common flatwing Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of common flatwing are typically found on aquatic plants in clean, freshwater streams or ponds. naiads develop underwater and ensconce themselves in the sediment or amongst aquatic vegetation, sometimes clinging to submerged rocks. For their adult stage, common flatwing emerge and are usually spotted flying in close proximity to these waters, often seen darting among waterside trees and shrubs. Searching for the naiads would involve careful scrutiny of the aquatic plant life and examination of the benthic area, while finding adults requires surveying areas around water bodies, paying particular attention to the surrounding vegetation.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common flatwing
The suitable time to find common flatwing is during daylight hours when they are most active, particularly on sunny, warm days when their flight activity is highest.
Are Common flatwing harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Common flatwing
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Common flatwing is an adept predator both in its naiad stage, where it hunts underwater, and as an adult, flying agilely to capture prey. It is particularly fond of feasting on mosquitoes and other small insects, thus playing a crucial role in controlling pest populations. Both naiads and adults feed to support their own energy needs.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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