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Scarlet skimmer

Scarlet skimmer

Orthetrum testaceum

A species of Skimmers, Also known as Rufous-backed skimmer

The species is on the IUCN Red List as not endangered, assessment year 2011, the trend of the population is increasing according to the IUCN.

General Info About Scarlet skimmer
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Attributes of Scarlet skimmer
Colors
Brown
Red
Habitat
drain; pond; mature garden; river; lake; marsh
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Scarlet 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 Scarlet 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 Scarlet skimmer
It is distributed in Southeast Asia and South Asia.
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Adult Size of Scarlet skimmer
4.5 - 5 cm
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Predators of Scarlet skimmer Larvae
Frogs, toads, fish, aquatic insects, birds
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Predators of Adult Scarlet skimmer
Birds, spiders, frogs, wasps, mantises
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Interesting Facts About Scarlet skimmer
Scarlet skimmer can fly backward, a rare ability among flying species, showcasing a remarkable level of airborne agility and control.
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Scientific Classification of Scarlet skimmer
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Tips for Finding Scarlet skimmer
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Youth Habitat of Scarlet skimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Habitat Preferences of Scarlet skimmer Through Different Life Stages
The naiads of scarlet skimmer are aquatic, spending their early stages in ponds, marshes, or slow-moving streams where vegetation is abundant. They cling to submerged plants or debris and are effective predators of other aquatic organisms. In contrast, adult scarlet skimmer are commonly found in open areas near the same bodies of water where they developed, often seen perching on twigs or basking on rocks. To search for naiads, one must gently sift through the pond's plant life or look under rocks within the water, while seeking adults involves scanning for them resting in sunny spots or flying around water sources.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Scarlet skimmer
The most suitable time to find scarlet skimmer is during daylight hours, particularly on sunny, warm days when they are most active. Early mornings can be ideal for observing scarlet skimmer basking in the sun to warm up.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Scarlet skimmer
Scarlet skimmer prefer warm, sunny weather with little to no wind. They are less active during cold, rainy, or overcast conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Scarlet skimmer at Different Life Stages
Egg Scarlet skimmer eggs are usually laid in aquatic vegetation or directly in water. To find scarlet skimmer eggs, search around the edges of ponds or slow-moving streams with abundant plant life.
Naiad Scarlet skimmer naiads are aquatic and can be found in various freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and slow-flowing rivers. They often hide in debris or sediment, so carefully sifting through these materials with a net may reveal their presence.
Adult Once scarlet skimmer naiads are ready to metamorphose, they climb onto vegetation at the water's edge. This is the best time to carefully observe emergent plants near water for scarlet skimmer which are undergoing their transition to adulthood.
Scarlet skimmer adults are often spotted flying or perched on vegetation near bodies of water. You can find them by walking along the shores of rivers, ponds, and lakes, looking for individuals who are resting, hunting, or participating in mating behaviors.
Are Scarlet skimmer harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Scarlet 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
Bioindicators
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Scarlet skimmer, an aerial predator, exhibits impressive hunting skills during both its adult and naiad stages. Adults capture prey mid-flight using their precision flight and sharp mandibles, mainly feeding on mosquitoes, flies, and other soft-bodied insects, not only to sustain themselves but also as an integral part of the ecosystem's balance. In their aquatic naiad stage, they are voracious predators of aquatic larvae, including mosquito larvae.
Bioindicators
Stage
Adults, Naiads
The naiad stage of scarlet skimmer reveal much about water quality through their presence and health. As adults, they reflect the broader ecological integrity, thriving in non-polluted environments. With sensitivity to pH and toxin levels, scarlet skimmer serves as an efficient, natural gauge for ecological monitoring and assessment.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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