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Dark spreadwing

Dark spreadwing

Lestes macrostigma

A species of Pond spreadwings

This species is up to 48 millimeters long. It is similar to other common Lestes species but it is darker in color with more blue pruinescence. The pterostigmata are large and black.

General Info About Dark spreadwing
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Attributes of Dark spreadwing
Colors
Brown
Green
White
Blue
Habitat
Brackish water; coastal estuarie; salty inland lake
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, small beetles
Larva Food Source
Daphnia (water fleas), mosquito larvae, small aquatic insects, worms, tadpoles
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Dark spreadwing
This species has a wide distribution extending from the western coastlines of Europe into Central Asia and the Middle East. Much of its European range is in the Mediterranean. Its distribution is fragmented. It is more abundant in the eastern parts of its range, but abundance varies according to climate and weather. In some areas it is common and in others it is rare and sometimes endangered. It is most common around brackish waters, like coastal estuaries and salty inland lakes.
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Life Cycle of Dark spreadwing
Egg The egg of dark spreadwing starts as a small, typically oval-shaped capsule. It harbors the developing embryo. The color may vary, often camouflaged, and the size is very small. The eggs are usually laid in water or on vegetation.
Naiad Hatching from the egg, the naiad of dark spreadwing resembles a small adult without wings. It undergoes several molts, growing in size and gradually developing wing pads. As aquatic insects, their color and shape are adapted to aquatic life.
Adult Emerging from the final molt, the adult dark spreadwing has fully formed wings and a distinct elongated body. The coloration is often vibrant and helps in mate selection. The adult dark spreadwing is winged, highly mobile, and focuses on reproduction.
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Predators of Dark spreadwing Larvae
Frogs and toads, birds, larger aquatic insects, fish
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Scientific Classification of Dark spreadwing
Tips for Finding Dark spreadwing
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Youth Habitat of Dark spreadwing
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Dark spreadwing
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats
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How Can You Attract Dark spreadwing
Since dark spreadwing are predators, they are not attracted to conventional traps with food bait. Instead, observing their hunting and feeding habits might be the key to finding them.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Dark spreadwing
Warm, sunny weather with little to no wind is ideal for finding adult dark spreadwing as they are more active during these conditions. For their aquatic immature stages, the weather is less of a factor compared to the quality and availability of aquatic habitats.
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How and Where Can You Find Dark spreadwing at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of dark spreadwing are typically laid on or near water bodies on aquatic plants or substrates. Searching the edges of ponds, lakes, and streams for eggs laid in rows or groups on stems and leaves of aquatic plants can lead to their discovery.
Naiad Dark spreadwing naiads are aquatic and can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats. To locate naiads, gently sift through the substrate at the bottom of clean, still or slow-moving water bodies, or examine aquatic vegetation.
Adult During this stage, dark spreadwing metamorphose into their adult form and can be found near the water's edge, attached to vegetation or other surfaces as they prepare to emerge. Search for them in the early morning hours when they are most likely to undergo metamorphosis.
Adult dark spreadwing are aerial and can be spotted flying over water bodies or basking in the sun on vegetation. They are best found by walking slowly along the margins of lakes, ponds, and streams, and looking for them perched on plants, especially on sunny days.
Are Dark spreadwing harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Dark 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, Flies, Small Insects
Dark spreadwing is an expert hunter, employing its acute vision to detect and intercept flying prey mid-air. As naiads, they are aquatic predators, ambushing prey in water. The urge to hunt is driven by the need to sustain energy levels and fuel flight. Interestingly, dark spreadwing can consume up to a fifth of its body weight in just one meal.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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