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Asian emerald spreadwing

Asian emerald spreadwing

Lestes elatus

A species of Pond spreadwings

The asian emerald spreadwing, a graceful inhabitant of aquatic habitats, exhibits a stunning metamorphosis in its lifecycle, starting as an aquatic nymph voraciously feeding on small invertebrates before emerging onto land. As an adult, it possesses long, iridescent wings and an elongated body, engaging in impressive aerial acrobatics to secure prey and evade predators. The species is also known for its unique reproductive behavior, which includes the female depositing eggs into plant tissue while in tandem with the male, ensuring the next generation takes root in a suitable environment.

General Info About Asian emerald spreadwing
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Attributes of Asian emerald spreadwing
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Red
White
Blue
Habitat
Pond; marsh; paddy field; plain
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, small beetles
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Asian emerald 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 Asian emerald 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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Species Status of Asian emerald spreadwing
Common and widespread
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Distribution Area of Asian emerald spreadwing
India, Thailand, Sri Lanka
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Life Cycle of Asian emerald spreadwing
Egg The egg stage for asian emerald spreadwing begins with the female depositing eggs into plant tissue near water. These eggs are typically elongated and laid in rows or clusters. Over time, they increase in size due to water absorption.
Naiad Upon hatching, asian emerald spreadwing enter the naiad stage characterized by an aquatic lifestyle. naiads resemble the adult asian emerald spreadwing, but without wings. They undergo several molts, growing larger and developing wing pads with each stage.
Adult Emerging from the final molt, the adult asian emerald spreadwing exhibits fully formed wings and a slender, elongated abdomen. It possesses a metallic or bright coloration for mating displays. Adults are strong fliers and leave the aquatic environment for reproduction.
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Interesting Facts About Asian emerald spreadwing
Asian emerald spreadwing can remain in its nymph form for up to five years before transforming into an adult.
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Scientific Classification of Asian emerald spreadwing
Tips for Finding Asian emerald spreadwing
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Youth Habitat of Asian emerald spreadwing
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Asian emerald spreadwing
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats
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When is the Best Time to Observe Asian emerald spreadwing
The best time to find adult asian emerald spreadwing is on sunny days when they are most active, usually between late morning to mid-afternoon.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Asian emerald spreadwing
Adult asian emerald spreadwing are typically found in warm, sunny weather with little to no wind. They are less active and harder to spot in cold, rainy, or windy conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Asian emerald spreadwing at Different Life Stages
Naiad Asian emerald spreadwing go through incomplete metamorphosis and do not have a terrestrial juvenile stage like caterpillars in Lepidoptera; they develop directly from aquatic naiads to flying adults in a process called incomplete metamorphosis.
Adult Finding asian emerald spreadwing during their emergence from aquatic naiads to adults is a matter of timing and observation. This usually occurs on plant stems or other objects close to the water’s edge. Look for asian emerald spreadwing in the early morning during warm weather when they are most likely to emerge. Spotting the shed exuviae (the cast-off skin of the naiad) can also be an indicator of recent emergence.
Are Asian emerald spreadwing harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Asian emerald spreadwing
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Small Insects
Asian emerald spreadwing employs remarkable hunting strategies both in its aquatic naiad form and as an airborne adult. As a naiad, it ambushes prey in the water, using its labium to swiftly capture unsuspecting insects. Upon reaching adulthood, asian emerald spreadwing takes to the skies, continuing its predatory role, remarkably catching smaller insects mid-flight with its adept flight abilities, contributing to ecosystem balance.
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