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Black-tailed skimmer

Black-tailed skimmer

Orthetrum cancellatum

A species of Skimmers

Adorning a predominantly black and yellow banded abdomen, black-tailed skimmer possesses transparent wings that can span wider than its slender frame, reflecting in the sunlight as it skillfully hovers above freshwater habitats. This aerial ace is known for its exceptional hunting prowess, typically feeding on a variety of smaller insects captured in flight, using highly refined vision to track and intercept its prey with precision.

General Info About Black-tailed skimmer
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Attributes of Black-tailed skimmer
Colors
Black
Yellow
Cyan
Habitat
open unvegetated area
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, butterflies
Larva Food Source
Aquatic insect larvae, tadpoles, small fish, small crustaceans, worms
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Black-tailed skimmer 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 Black-tailed 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 Black-tailed skimmer
It is widespread in Europe and Asia.
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Distribution Area of Black-tailed skimmer
Europe, Asia
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Life Cycle of Black-tailed skimmer
Egg The egg stage involves the black-tailed skimmer's initial developmental phase, where an enclosed embryo transforms within a protective casing.
Naiad During the naiad stage, the black-tailed skimmer exhibits a voracious appetite, mainly spending time eating and growing. The naiad changes dramatically in size, but not in basic body layout.
In the naiad stage, the black-tailed skimmer is an aquatic predator, hunting smaller creatures. This stage features gradual morphological changes during each molt.
Subimago In the emergence stage, the black-tailed skimmer transitions to an adult. This is a vulnerable time as its wings are unfurled and the exoskeleton hardens.
Adult Emerging from the last molt, the adult black-tailed skimmer's development is marked by wings and reproductive capabilities. The adult's form is fixed, seeking mates and reproducing.
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Adult Size of Black-tailed skimmer
4.5 - 5 cm
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Predators of Black-tailed skimmer Larvae
Frogs, toads, fish, other aquatic insects, water beetles
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Predators of Adult Black-tailed skimmer
Birds, spiders, mantises, bats, frogs, toads, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Black-tailed skimmer
The larvae of black-tailed skimmer breathe through their rectum, allowing them to extract oxygen while staying submerged.
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Scientific Classification of Black-tailed skimmer
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Tips for Finding Black-tailed skimmer
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Youth Habitat of Black-tailed skimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Black-tailed skimmer
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Black-tailed skimmer Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of black-tailed skimmer are typically laid in standing or slow-flowing freshwater bodies, such as ponds or ditches. naiads, known as naiads, inhabit the benthic zones of these waters, often hiding in sediment or among aquatic plants. When searching for naiads, focus on shallower regions with ample vegetation. Adults prefer open areas near water sources for hunting and often perch on vegetation or the ground, basking in the sun. To find adult black-tailed skimmer, one should explore the banks of rivers, lakes, and wetlands, particularly on sunny days when they are most active.
Are Black-tailed skimmer harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Black-tailed 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
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Small Insects
Black-tailed skimmer is an adept hunter both in its naiad stage, and as an airborne adult. Its large eyes and swift flight allow it to catch prey such as mosquitoes in mid-air. Naiad black-tailed skimmer are also important predators of aquatic pests. This species' hunting serves its primary need: sustenance.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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