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Spotted darter

Spotted darter

Sympetrum depressiusculum

A species of Darters, Also known as Autumn darter

Adults reach 29 to 34 mm in body length, of which 20–24 mm is abdomen. Males are distinguished by a flattened orange abdomen with a line of drop-shaped spots along each side and clubbed overall appearance - i.e. widest at the tip. They closely resemble males of the ruddy darter, which have more evenly flattened abdomen and noticeably darker pterostigmata. Adults fly in the late summer. They are weak fliers.

General Info About Spotted darter
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Attributes of Spotted darter
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
It breeds in temporary water bodies, which dry out in the autumn and are re-filled in late spring when the snow melts. It can also colonize reservoirs and paddy fields where such water dynamic is maintained by humans. Furthermore, it is thought to have spread across some parts of Europe thanks to carp aquaculture which creates similar conditions. The species is distributed across temperate parts of Eurasia from Western Europe to Japan, but is absent from steppes and deserts of Central Asia. The majority of the European population inhabits Alpine slopes and lowlands of east Germany and Poland. In the rest of the distribution range, it is only present locally. The European population is in decline due to intensification of land use and abandoning traditional agriculture, unlike populations of many other dragonfly species which have rebounded in the past few decades because of reduction in water pollution. It it thus regarded vulnerable in Europe.
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, mayflies
Larva Food Source
Aquatic invertebrates, tadpoles, small fish, mosquito larvae, other small aquatic organisms
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Spotted darter 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 Spotted darter
Widely distributed
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Distribution Area of Spotted darter
Temperate parts of Eurasia
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Life Cycle of Spotted darter
Egg The egg of the spotted darter is often laid in or near water. Though small and unassuming, it contains the essential elements to give rise to the next stage of development.
Naiad As naiads, spotted darter exhibit substantial growth through successive molts. They are aquatic predators, with extendable jaws for catching prey. Over time, their size and predatory abilities increase.
Subimago Transitioning from aquatic naiad, spotted darter emerges from water to shed its exuvia. The appearance of wing stubs signals upcoming changes, although spotted darter remains vulnerable and immobile.
Adult Emerging from the naiad exoskeleton, the adult spotted darter showcases fully developed wings and body segmentation. At this point, spotted darter is a flying predator with vibrant colors and developed reproductive capacities.
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Predators of Spotted darter Larvae
Aquatic insects (such as dytiscid beetles and other predatory diving beetles), fish, tadpoles, newts
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Predators of Adult Spotted darter
Birds (such as swallows and flycatchers), spiders, frogs, other dragonflies, mantis
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Interesting Facts About Spotted darter
The larvae of spotted darter can extrude their intestines to breathe underwater, allowing them to absorb oxygen directly from the water.
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Scientific Classification of Spotted darter
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 Spotted darter
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Youth Habitat of Spotted darter
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Spotted darter
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Savannas, Mangroves and Coastal Wetlands
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How Can You Attract Spotted darter
Using a trap or food to capture spotted darter is not recommended as it can disrupt their natural behavior and ecosystem. Observational methods are preferred.
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Habitat Preferences of Spotted darter Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of spotted darter are typically found in still or slow-moving freshwater bodies, such as ponds or the shallow edges of lakes, where they are laid on submerged vegetation. The naiads, known as naiads, inhabit the benthic zone of these waters, hiding in debris and preying on other small aquatic organisms. Immature stages prefer environments with ample aquatic plants that provide shelter and hunting grounds. Upon reaching adulthood, spotted darter can be spotted in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, meadows, and gardens. They are frequently observed flying around water bodies or perching on plants, often in sunny locations. To find them, one should search near water for the juveniles and in sunny, open areas close to water for the adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Spotted darter
The best times to observe spotted darter are during warm, sunny days, especially from late morning to early afternoon, when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Spotted darter
Ideal weather conditions for finding spotted darter include warm temperatures and low wind since spotted darter are less active and harder to spot in cool or windy conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Spotted darter at Different Life Stages
Naiad Spotted darter naiads are aquatic and are usually found in ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams. You can look for them by carefully examining the water's edge, turning over rocks, and inspecting submerged vegetation.
Juvenile spotted darter, also known as teneral adults, have recently emerged and are often found near their emergence site. They are characterized by pale coloration and can be spotted resting on vegetation as they dry and harden their exoskeleton.
Adult When spotted darter are ready to emerge from their naiadl stage, they typically climb onto reeds, rocks, or other nearby surfaces near water. Early in the morning, search these areas to find spotted darter in the process of metamorphosis.
Spotted darter adults are active fliers and are often seen near bodies of water, meadows, and fields. Look for spotted darter perching on vegetation, patrolling territories, or mating in flight. Observing from a distance with binoculars can be helpful to avoid disturbing them.
Are Spotted darter harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Spotted darter
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Small Flying Insects
Spotted darter is an adept aerial hunter, preying primarily on mosquitoes, flies, and mayflies. During its naiad stage in water, it predates on a variety of aquatic organisms. This predatory behavior serves as natural pest control, with adults capturing prey mid-flight using their acute vision and swift flight capabilities. Little-known is the naiad's ambush strategy, lying in wait to seize unsuspecting prey with its labium.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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