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Elfin skimmer

Elfin skimmer

Nannothemis bella

A species of Nannothemis

The Nannothemis bella is the only species of dragonfly of the genus Nannothemis from the subfamily Brachydiplacinae. Its distribution area extends over the southeastern Canada and along the east coast of the USA.

General Info About Elfin skimmer
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Attributes of Elfin skimmer
Colors
Black
Yellow
Cyan
Habitat
swamp
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, small moths, mayflies
Larva Food Source
Aquatic invertebrates, small fish, tadpoles, zooplankton, other insect larvae
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Elfin skimmer 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 Elfin skimmer
It is found in the United States and Canada.
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Distribution Area of Elfin skimmer
Eastern United States and Canada
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Life Cycle of Elfin skimmer
Egg The elfin skimmer begins as an egg, often laid in water or moist areas. The egg is tiny, spherical, and may have a gelatinous coating protecting it from environmental threats and desiccation.
Naiad As a naiad, the elfin skimmer resembles the adult in basic structure but lacks wings. The naiad is aquatic, voraciously feeding on smaller aquatic organisms, and molts multiple times, growing incrementally with each stage.
Adult The adult elfin skimmer emerges after the final molt, featuring fully developed wings and the ability to fly. Adults display vibrant colors and patterns on their bodies and wings, and their primary focus is on mating and laying eggs.
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Adult Size of Elfin skimmer
1.8 - 2 cm
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Predators of Elfin skimmer Larvae
Fish, tadpoles, aquatic insects, newts, salamanders
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Scientific Classification of Elfin skimmer
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Tips for Finding Elfin skimmer
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Youth Habitat of Elfin skimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Elfin skimmer
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats
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How Can You Attract Elfin skimmer
There is generally no need to use trap food to find elfin skimmer, as they are predatory and cannot be baited in the same way as some other creatures can.
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Habitat Preferences of Elfin skimmer Through Different Life Stages
For the first stage, the eggs of elfin skimmer are laid and hatch in still or slow-flowing waters, such as ponds, marshes, or quiet streams. naiads reside in these aquatic environments, navigating among submerged vegetation and debris, predating on other small aquatic organisms. Upon reaching maturity, the naiads undergo metamorphosis and emerge as adults. Adult elfin skimmer, including both males and females, are commonly found in nearby terrestrial habitats, often perching on vegetation or stones, near the water bodies where they developed as naiads. These adults are also known to venture into fields and forests for feeding. To observe the complete life cycle of elfin skimmer, it’s crucial to explore the edges of freshwater bodies and adjacent land areas with ample vegetation during the suitable seasons.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Elfin skimmer
The ideal time to find elfin skimmer is during warm, sunny days, typically from late spring to early fall, when they are most active.
Are Elfin skimmer harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Elfin skimmer
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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
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Elfin skimmer is a skilled aerial hunter, capturing prey in flight with its spiny legs. In both naiad and adult stages, it feeds on pests primarily to sustain itself. Interestingly, the naiads, which live in water, are equally voracious, preying on aquatic insects and sometimes even small fish.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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