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White-legged damselfly

White-legged damselfly

Platycnemis pennipes

A species of Featherlegs, Also known as Agrion larges pattes

The white-legged damselfly or blue featherleg (Platycnemis pennipes) is a damselfly of slow-flowing, muddy waters. It occurs from the Atlantic to Siberia and is often abundant throughout its range.

General Info About White-legged damselfly
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Attributes of White-legged damselfly
Colors
Black
Yellow
Blue
Habitat
River; canal
Adult Food Sources
Mosquitoes, flies, moths, butterflies, other small insects
Larva Food Source
Aquatic larvae, small fish, tadpoles, small invertebrates, other zooplankton
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The White-legged damselfly 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 White-legged damselfly 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 White-legged damselfly
Widespread
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Distribution Area of White-legged damselfly
Atlantic, Siberia
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Life Cycle of White-legged damselfly
Egg Deposited in or near water, eggs of white-legged damselfly often exhibit ovum mimicry, blending with aquatic plants. Incremental growth occurs within the egg, where the future nymph's basic morphology starts to form.
Naiad The aquatic naiad stage of white-legged damselfly features gradual size increases and development of wing pads. naiads go through several instars, molting each time, with more pronounced wing growth and enhanced predatory abilities.
Subimago Later instars show a close resemblance to adults with larger wing pads and a more defined body structure, yet the wings are not fully developed and reproductive structures are immature.
Adult Emerging from the final molt, the adult white-legged damselfly exhibits fully developed wings and functional reproductive organs, transitioning to an aerial lifestyle. Body coloring becomes vibrant, signaling sexual maturity and readiness for reproduction.
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Predators of White-legged damselfly Larvae
Aquatic beetles, fish, water bugs, tadpoles, other dragonfly larvae
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Predators of Adult White-legged damselfly
Birds, spiders, frogs, wasps, other dragonflies
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Interesting Facts About White-legged damselfly
White-legged damselfly can regulate their body temperature by altering the angle of their abdomens, a behavior known as obelisk posture.
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Scientific Classification of White-legged damselfly
Tips for Finding White-legged damselfly
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Youth Habitat of White-legged damselfly
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of White-legged damselfly
Freshwater Habitats, Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract White-legged damselfly
Adults of white-legged damselfly may be attracted using decoys or mimics that resemble potential mates, while the aquatic larval stage might be lured with water plants or organic debris in which they can hide or hunt small aquatic prey.
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Habitat Preferences of White-legged damselfly Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of white-legged damselfly are typically laid in or near freshwater bodies, such as ponds and slow-moving streams, where vegetation is abundant. naiads, also known as naiads, inhabit underwater zones, clinging to submerged plants or hiding among detritus on the bottom. Upon emerging as adults after completing their aquatic naiadal stage, white-legged damselfly can be found near the same water sources, often resting on vegetation or patrolling the area in flight for mates and prey. To find these different stages, one would search around clean water bodies for eggs, inspect underwater vegetation and debris for naiads, and observe nearby plants and air space for adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe White-legged damselfly
The best time to observe adult white-legged damselfly is during warm and sunny days, preferably late morning to afternoon when they are most active. The naiad stages are less affected by the time of day and can be sought after in their aquatic habitats at any time.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe White-legged damselfly
Clear, calm, and preferably warm weather conditions are ideal for finding adult white-legged damselfly. Rainy or windy conditions are less suitable as adult white-legged damselfly tend to be less active and may seek shelter. naiad stages can be found in aquatic environments irrespective of weather conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find White-legged damselfly at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of white-legged damselfly are laid in water or on aquatic plants. To find them, inspect the stems and leaves of water plants in clean streams or ponds.
Naiad Naiads of white-legged damselfly are aquatic and can be found by gently sifting through pond vegetation and detritus or by using a fine mesh net to scoop through the water near the edges of a stream.
Adult During emergence, white-legged damselfly can be found in the transition between their aquatic habitat and terrestrial environment, typically clinging to vegetation near water bodies as they molt into their adult form.
Adult white-legged damselfly are often seen flying near or resting on vegetation around water bodies. Finding them requires careful observation and slow movement to avoid startling them, as they can be found sunbathing on leaves or hunting for prey.
Are White-legged damselfly harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of White-legged damselfly
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Small Moths
The white-legged damselfly employs an ambush strategy, lying in wait until a suitable prey comes within range, then striking with remarkable agility and precision. Using their serrated mandibles, they seize their prey and subdue it. The aquatic naiads are equally effective predators, living a stealthy life underwater as they hunt small aquatic insects. Another remarkable aspect of white-legged damselfly is their incredible eyesight, which allows them to detect the slightest movements and features necessary for their predatory lifestyle.
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