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Northern spreadwing

Northern spreadwing

Lestes disjunctus

A species of Pond spreadwings

The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1862 by Selys.

General Info About Northern spreadwing
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Attributes of Northern spreadwing
Colors
Black
White
Cyan
Habitat
wetland
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, moths, flies, mayflies
Larva Food Source
Larvae of other insects, small aquatic organisms, tadpoles, small fish, zooplankton
Non-poisonous
The Northern spreadwing 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 Northern spreadwing typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Life Cycle of Northern spreadwing
Egg The eggs of northern spreadwing are usually laid on vegetation near water. At this stage, they are typically small and hard to see. Over time, they increase in size as the embryo develops within.
Naiad In this stage, northern spreadwing is aquatic and predaceous, with a long, slender body and extendable jaws. It undergoes several molts, growing larger with each one, yet maintaining a similar shape throughout its naiad life.
Subimago After completing growth, the naiad of northern spreadwing emerges from the water and undergoes a transformation. The skin splits, revealing the adult form, which is soft and pale at first.
Adult The adult northern spreadwing has large, multi-veined wings and a slender, elongated body. The coloring is more vibrant and it now engages in aerial flight. Adult focuses on feeding and mating, with no further growth.
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Adult Size of Northern spreadwing
1.3 - 1.8 mm
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Predators of Northern spreadwing Larvae
Fish, tadpoles, aquatic insects, water beetles, backswimmers, diving beetles
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Predators of Adult Northern spreadwing
Birds, frogs, spiders, wasps, mantises, bats
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Interesting Facts About Northern spreadwing
The northern spreadwing can fly backward, exhibiting exceptional aerial agility unparalleled in most other insect groups.
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Scientific Classification of Northern spreadwing
Tips for Finding Northern spreadwing
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How Can You Attract Northern spreadwing
People generally do not use trap food to find northern spreadwing; instead, they search for them in their natural habitats.
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Habitat Preferences of Northern spreadwing Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of northern spreadwing are laid in aquatic vegetation, typically in calm waters such as ponds or swamps. naiads develop underwater, using submerged plants as habitat and foraging grounds for small aquatic organisms. To find the naiads, search among emergent plants and debris in still freshwater bodies. Upon emergence, adult northern spreadwing prefer habitats with open areas near water sources for foraging and mating. They perch on plants or other objects near water's edge. To locate adults, look for them basking in sunny spots close to lakes, marshes, or slow-moving streams.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Northern spreadwing
The best time to find adult northern spreadwing is during the day, particularly on sunny days when they are most active. The naiad stage is aquatic, so searching for them should be done during daylight hours, preferably when the water is calm and clear.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Northern spreadwing
Weather conditions should ideally be warm and sunny for observing adult northern spreadwing, as they are less active during cold or rainy days. naiads are less affected by weather but are best sought when the water temperature is warmer.
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How and Where Can You Find Northern spreadwing at Different Life Stages
Egg Northern spreadwing eggs are often laid on aquatic plants or substrates near water. Look for them by inspecting leaves and stems of vegetation near the water's edge, especially on plants that are partially submerged.
Naiad Northern spreadwing naiads are aquatic and can be found by gently sifting through the substrate at the bottom of clean, still or slow-moving water bodies, such as ponds, marshes, or the edges of lakes. Use a fine mesh net to carefully scoop in the shallow water and examine the contents.
Adult During the emergent stage, northern spreadwing move out of the water to transition into adults. Look for them on vegetation, rocks, or other structures close to the waterline where they climb to undergo metamorphosis. This is usually done during early morning hours.
Adult northern spreadwing can be found near water sources such as rivers, lakes, and ponds where they hunt and mate. Search for them during the day, particularly in sunny areas. They are often seen perching on vegetation or flying over the water.
Are Northern spreadwing harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Northern spreadwing
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Small Insects
Northern spreadwing is adept at capturing prey mid-flight with its sharp mandibles. During its aquatic naiad stage, it feeds voraciously on mosquito larvae, helping control populations. As adults, they continue their predatory role, often catching unsuspecting flies, small insects, and even mosquitoes in mid-air. This predation serves to sustain northern spreadwing and maintain ecological balance by regulating pest species.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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