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Banded demoiselle

Banded demoiselle

Calopteryx splendens

A species of Demoiselles, Also known as Banded damoiselle

With iridescent wings that shimmer as they capture the sunlight, banded demoiselle graces freshwater habitats with its presence. The males are particularly known for their vibrant, metallic blue-green bodies, while females feature a more subdued green with bronze-tinted wings. During their juvenile stage, they are aquatic predators, but as adults, they continue to hunt, skillfully capturing prey mid-air. Their dazzling wing beats are not just for show; they play a crucial role in courtship displays, where males exhibit a complex series of aerial acrobatics to impress potential mates.

General Info About Banded demoiselle
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Attributes of Banded demoiselle
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Blue
Habitat
stream; river; canal
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects such as mosquitoes, flies, small moths, mayflies, and other soft-bodied flying insects
Larva Food Source
Aquatic larvae of insects, small tadpoles, worms, aquatic crustaceans
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Banded demoiselle 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 Banded demoiselle typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Banded demoiselle
It is present throughout Eurasia from the Atlantic coast to Lake Baikal and north-western China.
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Distribution Area of Banded demoiselle
Atlantic coast, Lake Baikal, China
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Life Cycle of Banded demoiselle
Egg The eggs of banded demoiselle are laid in water or on vegetation near water. They are small and typically ovular, developing and nourishing the embryo until it is ready to hatch.
Naiad Upon hatching, the banded demoiselle naiad lives in water and undergoes several molts. They grow larger with each molt, develop wing pads, and their predatory nature becomes evident.
Adult Emerging from the final molt, the adult banded demoiselle sports iridescent wings and a slender body. Its coloration is more pronounced, signaling sexual maturity. Now terrestrial, it exhibits flight and seeks to reproduce.
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Adult Size of Banded demoiselle
3.5 - 5 cm
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Predators of Banded demoiselle Larvae
Aquatic beetles, fish, salamanders, tadpoles, wading birds
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Predators of Adult Banded demoiselle
Birds, spiders, frogs, wasps, dragonflies, robber flies
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Interesting Facts About Banded demoiselle
A unique trait of banded demoiselle is its ability to selectively reflect certain light wavelengths, creating a striking, iridescent sheen on its wings.
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Scientific Classification of Banded demoiselle
Tips for Finding Banded demoiselle
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Youth Habitat of Banded demoiselle
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Banded demoiselle
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Banded demoiselle
Because banded demoiselle is predatory, they are not attracted to conventional bait, but lures that mimic their prey like small insects may occasionally be effective.
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Habitat Preferences of Banded demoiselle Through Different Life Stages
The naiads of banded demoiselle dwell primarily in clean, slow-flowing streams and rivers, often among aquatic plants or under stones. For the adult stage, search around the edges of these waters, as they prefer to perch on vegetation near the banks. To find these adults, it may be necessary to quietly observe the vegetation, as they can be elusive and fast-flying.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Banded demoiselle
The best time to find banded demoiselle is during warm, sunny days when they are most active, usually from late spring to early autumn.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Banded demoiselle
Banded demoiselle prefer clear, non-windy days because strong winds can hamper their flight. Look for them when the weather is calm and warm.
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How and Where Can You Find Banded demoiselle at Different Life Stages
Egg Banded demoiselle eggs are laid in or near water. Look for them attached to submerged plants or in the mud at the edge of ponds and slow-moving streams.
Naiad Banded demoiselle naiads are aquatic and can be found in clean, well-oxygenated waters. Gently scoop pond vegetation and mud with a net to observe them.
Adult During emergence, banded demoiselle metamorphose into adults. This occurs near water bodies on plants or other vertical substrates. Look for them early in the morning on reeds, rocks, or stems.
Banded demoiselle adults are often found near water sources, flying or perched. Search for them by walking slowly along the edges of rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes. A pair of binoculars can help spot them from a distance without disturbing them.
Are Banded demoiselle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Banded demoiselle
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Aquatic Insects
Banded demoiselle is a skilled hunter, both as a naiad in water and as an adult in the air. In its aquatic naiad stage, it actively hunts small aquatic creatures, including mosquito larvae and other insects. As an adult, it seizes flying prey with precision. Its predatory nature is critical for controlling pest populations in their habitat.
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