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Yellow-tailed demoiselle

Yellow-tailed demoiselle

Calopteryx xanthostoma

A species of Demoiselles, Also known as Westernmoiselle yellow-tailed

With delicate wings shimmering in iridescent shades akin to stained glass, yellow-tailed demoiselle performs a mesmerizing dance over freshwater streams. Males are remarkable for their display of vividly colored wings which they showcase in complex courtship rituals, a spectacle rooted in evolutionary adaptation. These agile fliers expertly navigate their aquatic habitats, capturing prey mid-air with striking precision. The nymphs, in contrast, lead an aquatic life entirely, developing in the water before metamorphosing into their aerial adult form.

General Info About Yellow-tailed demoiselle
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Attributes of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Colors
Black
Green
Yellow
Blue
Habitat
Around running watercourse; stream; river; open; somewhat shady area
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, mayflies
Larva Food Source
Aquatic invertebrates, mosquito larvae, small tadpoles, aquatic worms, other small aquatic organisms
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Yellow-tailed 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
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Species Status of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Stable population
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Distribution Area of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Southern France, the Iberian Peninsula
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Life Cycle of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Egg The yellow-tailed demoiselle starts as an egg, which is often laid on vegetation near water. Eggs are small and typically oval, evolving inside until the naiads are ready to hatch.
Naiad Upon hatching, yellow-tailed demoiselle naiads, called naiads, are exclusively aquatic. They undergo multiple molts, growing in size each time. Their color is muted, and they possess extendable jaws for hunting small aquatic prey.
Subimago As naiads mature, they develop wing pads and exhibit more defined, brighter coloration. During this stage, they prepare to transition to terrestrial habitats, showing increased restlessness.
Adult Emerging from the final molt, the adult yellow-tailed demoiselle has long, iridescent wings and a slender, colorful body. Now terrestrial, it focuses on feeding, mating, and laying eggs. The adult is highly mobile.
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Interesting Facts About Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Yellow-tailed demoiselle has the unique ability to see polarized light, which aids in hunting and navigating aquatic environments.
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Scientific Classification of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Tips for Finding Yellow-tailed demoiselle
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Youth Habitat of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats, Grasslands and Prairies, Savannas, Mangroves and Coastal Wetlands
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How Can You Attract Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Yellow-tailed demoiselle adults are predators, primarily feeding on flying insects. No specific trap food is necessary, but being in an area with abundant small insects can increase the chances of encountering yellow-tailed demoiselle.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Yellow-tailed demoiselle
Clear, warm days with little wind are the most suitable weather conditions for finding yellow-tailed demoiselle, because this promotes active foraging and mating behaviors.
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How and Where Can You Find Yellow-tailed demoiselle at Different Life Stages
Egg Yellow-tailed demoiselle eggs are typically laid on aquatic plants or in the water. To find them, search along the edges of slow-moving streams or calm rivers where aquatic vegetation is present.
Naiad Yellow-tailed demoiselle naiads live underwater and can be found by gently probing the substrate of clean streams or rivers, especially among the roots of plants or stones.
Adult During emergence, yellow-tailed demoiselle undergo their transition to adulthood along the water's edge. Look for them on vegetation or rocks close to where the naiads develop.
Yellow-tailed demoiselle adults can be seen flying near the water's edge, where they feed and mate. Search for them in open areas adjacent to water bodies, particularly where there are tall grasses or shrubs.
Are Yellow-tailed demoiselle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Yellow-tailed demoiselle
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Aquatic Insects
Yellow-tailed demoiselle inhabits water bodies and surrounding areas where prey is abundant. These predators are skilled hunters in both naiad and adult stages. Naiad ambush or chase down prey underwater, while adults are agile fliers capturing mosquitoes and insects mid-air. This dual hunting strategy ensures yellow-tailed demoiselle's survival and reproductive success.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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