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Variegated meadowhawk

Variegated meadowhawk

Sympetrum corruptum

A species of Darters

Variegated meadowhawk is a striking flying invertebrate known for its ability to swiftly maneuver through the air. It has a life cycle that includes both aquatic larvae and airborne adults, showcasing significant morphological changes from one stage to the next. As larvae, they are voracious predators in freshwater habitats. Upon reaching adulthood, they exhibit a propensity for perching on vegetation and the ground, and they exhibit migratory behavior that is not fully understood. Their diet mainly consists of small flying insects, which they capture with impressive aerial agility.

General Info About Variegated meadowhawk
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Attributes of Variegated meadowhawk
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Variegated meadowhawk 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 Variegated meadowhawk typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Life Cycle of Variegated meadowhawk
Egg Deposited in water, the variegated meadowhawk eggs are small and often ovular. Over time, they swell and change color as the embryo inside develops, preparing for the next life stage.
Naiad Upon hatching, the naiad of variegated meadowhawk possesses a voracious appetite. It grows significantly, molting several times, while its shape elongates and its color typically reflects the aquatic vegetation.
Subimago The subadult variegated meadowhawk nymph continues to grow and resembles the adult form more closely, minus wings and reproductive structures. Molts become more frequent, and changes in coloration signal impending adulthood.
Adult Emerging from the water, the adult variegated meadowhawk’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Variegated meadowhawk
4 - 4.5 cm
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Predators of Variegated meadowhawk Larvae
Frogs, toads, aquatic beetles, fish, water bugs, turtles
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Predators of Adult Variegated meadowhawk
Birds, spiders, frogs, toads, other dragonflies, bats
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Interesting Facts About Variegated meadowhawk
Variegated meadowhawk can fly backwards, a maneuverability feat made possible by their unique wing structure and muscle arrangement.
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Scientific Classification of Variegated meadowhawk
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Genus
Darters
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Tips for Finding Variegated meadowhawk
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Adult Habitat of Variegated meadowhawk
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Variegated meadowhawk Through Different Life Stages
The naiads of variegated meadowhawk typically dwell in freshwater habitats, such as ponds, marshes, or slow-moving streams where they inhabit the benthic zone, nestled in substrates or vegetation to hunt small aquatic prey. Searching for them involves carefully inspecting the underwater plants or debris. As they metamorphose into adults, variegated meadowhawk become aerial, often found in the vicinity of their naiad watering holes but also dispersing widely. To find the adults, one might check open areas near water bodies for perched or flying individuals particularly on warm, sunny days when they are most active.
Are Variegated meadowhawk harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Variegated meadowhawk
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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
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Moths, Small Flying Insects
Variegated meadowhawk are aerial predators hunting their prey in flight with exceptional speed and agility. They catch and eat a variety of small flying insects. An interesting fact about variegated meadowhawk is that they have acute vision, allowing them to detect prey movements from several meters away. Their hunting is motivated by the need to sustain their energy-intensive flight.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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