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Small spreadwing

Small spreadwing

Lestes virens

A species of Pond spreadwings, Also known as Small emerald spreadwing

The small spreadwing resides near calm water bodies where its naiads, the aquatic juvenile stage, develop amidst vegetation. These nymphs are carnivorous, hunting small aquatic prey. The adults are known for their agile flight and predacious nature, capturing flying insects mid-air. Males exhibit territorial behavior, often engaging in aerial displays to defend prime breeding sites.

General Info About Small spreadwing
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Attributes of Small spreadwing
Colors
Green
Yellow
Habitat
wetland; artificial/aquatic & marine area; marine coastal/supratidal area
Adult Food Sources
Small flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, mayflies, small moths
Larva Food Source
Small aquatic insects, larval stages of other insects, small crustaceans, tadpoles, worms
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Small 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 Small 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 Small spreadwing
It is native to much of Europe and western and central Asia.
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Distribution Area of Small spreadwing
Spain, southern France, Sardinia, North Africa
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Life Cycle of Small spreadwing
Egg The eggs of small spreadwing are laid in water or on vegetation near water. They are small and typically oval. Color ranges from transparent to pale green or brown, providing camouflage.
Naiad Naiads of small spreadwing are aquatic and predatorily feed on other small aquatic organisms. Their coloration often mimics their environment, aiding in protection from predators. They lack wings but show beginnings of wing pads in later stages.
Adult Emerging from the nymph stage, the adult small spreadwing's development is marked by elongated bodies and transparent wings. Their colors become more vibrant and size increases significantly with fully developed reproductive organs.
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Adult Size of Small spreadwing
3.5 - 4.5 cm
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Predators of Small spreadwing Larvae
Fish, water beetles, tadpoles, backswimmers, diving beetles, other aquatic insects
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Predators of Adult Small spreadwing
Birds, spiders, frogs, wasps, other dragonflies
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Interesting Facts About Small spreadwing
The iridescent wings of small spreadwing function as excellent solar panels, absorbing sunlight to regulate their body temperature efficiently.
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Scientific Classification of Small spreadwing
Tips for Finding Small spreadwing
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Youth Habitat of Small spreadwing
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Small spreadwing
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats, Grasslands and Prairies
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How Can You Attract Small spreadwing
Since small spreadwing are predacious both in their immature stages as aquatic naiads and as adults, they are not usually attracted to baits or traps but rather can be observed hunting other insects.
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Habitat Preferences of Small spreadwing Through Different Life Stages
The growth and development of small spreadwing start in aquatic environments, where eggs are laid and naiads reside. The naiads typically inhabit slow-moving waters, such as ponds, marshes, or sluggish streams rich in vegetation. Searching for naiads would involve sweeping through submerged vegetation with a net. As they mature, small spreadwing naiads climb out of the water onto nearby plants, undergoing metamorphosis to become adults. Adult small spreadwing are aerial and often found near the same watery habitats where they grew as naiads but also frequenting nearby meadows and gardens in search of food. To observe adults, one might scan for them resting on vegetation or flying in sunny areas near water sources.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Small spreadwing
The best time to locate small spreadwing is during daylight hours, especially on warm, sunny days when they are most active and likely to be seen flying or perched in sunny spots.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Small spreadwing
The ideal weather for finding small spreadwing is on calm, warm days with little to no wind. Small spreadwing tend to be less active during cold or inclement weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Small spreadwing at Different Life Stages
Egg Small spreadwing eggs are typically laid in plant stems or aquatic vegetation near the water's edge. To find them, examine the stems of waterside plants or submerged vegetation.
Naiad Small spreadwing naiads are aquatic and can be found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. Look for them by carefully sifting through pond vegetation or by inspecting debris and the substrate of shallow water bodies.
Adult During the emergence stage, small spreadwing transition from aquatic naiads to airborne adults. This stage can be observed at the water's edge where the naiads climb up vegetation to molt into their adult form. Look for exuviae (cast-off skins) on plant stems or near the waterline.
Small spreadwing adults are flying insects that can often be found near bodies of water, perched on vegetation or patrolling the airspace. Spot them by looking for their characteristic hovering flight or by checking sunny, open areas beside water where they may rest or mate.
Are Small spreadwing harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Small spreadwing
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Aquatic Insects
Small spreadwing adult actively hunts for flying insects such as mosquitoes, providing excellent mosquito control. As a naiad in aquatic habitats, it preys on other aquatic insects. Both stages contribute to the ecological balance by keeping pest populations in check.
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