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Downy emerald

Downy emerald

Cordulia aenea

A species of Common emerald dragonflies

It is metallic green and bronze in color, and its thorax is coated with fine hairs, hence its name. Like most other emeralds, the downy emerald has bright shiny green eyes. Adults are around 5 cm in length, and are in flight from May through July each year.

General Info About Downy emerald
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Attributes of Downy emerald
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Habitat
pond
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, mayflies, moths
Larva Food Source
Aquatic invertebrates, mosquito larvae, tadpoles, small fish, various aquatic insects
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Downy emerald 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 Downy emerald 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 Downy emerald
It is distributed throughout most of Europe. Although it has been eliminated from some of its historic native area in Great Britain due to habitat loss.
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Distribution Area of Downy emerald
Most of Europe
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Adult Size of Downy emerald
5 cm
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Predators of Downy emerald Larvae
Fish, water beetles, tadpoles, other predatory aquatic insects
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Predators of Adult Downy emerald
Birds, spiders, frogs, wasps, other dragonflies
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Interesting Facts About Downy emerald
Despite its delicate appearance, downy emerald can fly backward, a rare skill shared with hummingbirds, showcasing impressive aerial agility.
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Scientific Classification of Downy emerald
Tips for Finding Downy emerald
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Youth Habitat of Downy emerald
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Downy emerald
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats, Grasslands and Prairies, Wetlands
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How Can You Attract Downy emerald
There isn't a typical 'trap food' for downy emerald since they are predatory insects at both larval and adult stages. However, finding areas with plenty of small insects could be indicative of downy emerald presence.
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Habitat Preferences of Downy emerald Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of downy emerald are usually laid in small bodies of freshwater, while the naiads, or naiads, develop underwater among aquatic plants or in the silt. To find the naiads, one would search the littoral zones of ponds or slow-moving streams. Mature downy emerald naiads often climb onto vegetation to undergo metamorphosis. The adult downy emerald are aerial and are found in various habitats but often return to the vicinity of water to feed and mate. They can be commonly seen patrolling or hovering over the water bodies, clearings, and meadows, especially on sunny days.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Downy emerald
The best time to find downy emerald is during daylight hours as they are diurnal. Adult downy emerald are most active on warm, sunny days, while naiad downy emerald can be found throughout the day in aquatic environments.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Downy emerald
Warm, clear, and relatively windless weather conditions are ideal for finding adult downy emerald as they are more likely to be in flight. Conversely, overcast and cooler days might limit their activity, making them less visible.
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How and Where Can You Find Downy emerald at Different Life Stages
Egg Downy emerald eggs are deposited on aquatic plants or in the water. To find them, carefully inspect the stems and leaves of aquatic plants in calm waters, such as ponds or slow-moving streams.
Naiad Downy emerald naiads are aquatic and can be found in ponds or slow-moving streams with clean water. Look for them by gently sifting through sediment or examining submerged rocks and vegetation.
Adult As downy emerald transition from naiads to adults, they can be found during their emergence on vegetation near water bodies. Spot them by looking for empty naiadl cases (exuviae) on plant stems near the water's edge.
Downy emerald adults are aerial and often seen flying around water bodies or resting on vegetation. To find adults, visit open areas near water sources such as lakes, ponds, or rivers on sunny days. Pay attention to sunny spots where downy emerald may rest or patrol their territory.
Are Downy emerald harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Downy emerald
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Moths, Butterflies
Downy emerald is an aerial assailant, adept in hunting a variety of pests, especially during its adult and naiad stages. With an insatiable appetite, it predominantly seeks out mosquitoes, flies, mayflies, and even moths or butterflies. Equipped with acute vision and swift flying abilities, downy emerald captures pests mid-flight, ensuring that these insects serve as a vital food source for its sustenance.
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