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Variable damselfly

Variable damselfly

Coenagrion pulchellum

A species of Eurasian bluets, Also known as Variable coenagrion

The male variable damselfly has a distinctive "wine glass" marking on the second segment of the abdomen. This is a black U-shaped mark with a black line joining the segment's narrow terminal black band.

General Info About Variable damselfly
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Attributes of Variable damselfly
Colors
Black
Green
Blue
Habitat
wetland; artificial/aquatic & marine area; marine coastal/supratidal area
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, mayflies
Larva Food Source
Aquatic invertebrates, mosquito larvae, other small aquatic organisms, zooplankton, small fish fry
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Variable damselfly 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 Variable damselfly 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 Variable damselfly
It occurs throughout Europe. Scattered and uncommon in mainland Britain but widespread and common in Ireland.
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Distribution Area of Variable damselfly
Europe
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Life Cycle of Variable damselfly
Egg After being laid on or near water, eggs of variable damselfly develop and hatch into nymphs. Color and size are minimal, providing camouflage from predators.
Naiad The naiad of variable damselfly grows in water, molting multiple times. It has a large head with extendable jaws and lacks wings. Color and shape changes occur with each molt.
Adult Emerging from the water, the adult variable damselfly exhibits a slender body with long, transparent wings and vibrant colors. Maturity includes reproductive capabilities and enhanced flight.
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Adult Size of Variable damselfly
1.3 - 3 cm
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Predators of Variable damselfly Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, jumping spiders, aquatic beetles, fish
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Predators of Adult Variable damselfly
Birds, frogs, spiders, dragonflies, mantises, bats
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Interesting Facts About Variable damselfly
With striking azure blue eyes, variable damselfly can perform backward flights, a rare skill not typically seen in flying insects.
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Scientific Classification of Variable damselfly
Tips for Finding Variable damselfly
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Youth Habitat of Variable damselfly
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Variable damselfly
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Wetlands
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How Can You Attract Variable damselfly
Variable damselfly adults are often attracted to areas with plentiful prey such as smaller insects and may also be drawn to artificial feeders or bait that mimic these conditions.
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Habitat Preferences of Variable damselfly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of variable damselfly are typically laid in aquatic vegetation in shallow freshwaters, like ponds or slow-flowing streams. naiads, or naiads, thrive in submerged plants or detritus within the same water bodies. For their search, one must carefully inspect aquatic flora or sift through debris on the water bed. When the naiads are ready to metamorphose, they climb onto nearby plants or rocks to emerge as adults. These mature variable damselfly are found in the vicinity of their natal aquatic sites, often seen darting above the water surface or resting on vegetation. To observe the adults, a visit to the water's edge on a sunny day is advisable, scanning for them as they fly or perch in the sun.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Variable damselfly
The best time to observe variable damselfly is on warm, sunny days when they are most active, typically during late spring to early fall depending on their geographical distribution.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Variable damselfly
Variable damselfly prefers clear, sunny weather with little wind, as these conditions are ideal for their flight and hunting activities.
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How and Where Can You Find Variable damselfly at Different Life Stages
Naiad Variable damselfly naiads are aquatic and can be found in slow-moving or still bodies of water like ponds, marshes, or the edges of streams. Search by examining aquatic plants, submerged logs, or stones where they might be hiding or hunting.
Young variable damselfly, which are recently emerged adults, often remain near their emergence site. They can be found by searching the surrounding vegetation and are recognizable by their brighter colors and less wear on their wings.
Adult During the variable damselfly emergence stage, look for them on vegetation near water bodies in the early morning. This is when the metamorphosis from naiad to adult takes place, and they are stationary, making them easier to spot.
Variable damselfly adults are typically found near water bodies such as lakes, ponds, and along rivers where they hunt for food and mate. Look for them perching on vegetation, basking in the sun or flying over the water surface. Later in the day, they may be seen roosting in trees or bushes.
Are Variable damselfly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Variable damselfly
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Aquatic Insects
Variable damselfly adeptly hunts prey during both naiadl (aquatic) and adult (aerial) stages. As a naiad, it ambushes aquatic organisms, often using vegetative camouflage. Adults capture prey mid-flight, using speed and acute vision. They primarily consume pests like mosquitoes, benefiting ecosystems by naturally controlling pest populations.
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