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Vagrant darter

Vagrant darter

Sympetrum vulgatum

A species of Darters, Also known as Vagrant sympetrum

The Common Darter (Sympetrum vulgatum) is a species of dragonfly in the family of the leaflets (Libellulidae). These are a family of the great dragonfly (Anisoptera). It is a medium-sized dragonfly with a wingspan of 5 to a maximum of 6.5 centimeters.

General Info About Vagrant darter
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Attributes of Vagrant darter
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
wetland; artificial/aquatic area
Adult Food Sources
Flies, mosquitoes, small beetles, moths, other small flying insects
Larva Food Source
Aquatic insects, tadpoles, small fish, other arthropod larvae, worms
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Vagrant darter 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 Vagrant 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 Vagrant darter
It is common in central and northeast Europe.
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Distribution Area of Vagrant darter
Central and northeast Europe
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Life Cycle of Vagrant darter
Egg The egg of vagrant darter is typically laid in water or on vegetation nearby. The eggs are small and may vary in color, often matching the environment for camouflage.
Naiad Upon hatching, the naiad vagrant darter emerges. It’s aquatic, predatory, and resembles a miniature adult without wings. The naiad undergoes several molts, growing larger each time.
Subimago Transitioning from nymph to adult, vagrant darter emerges from the water onto a terrestrial plant. The naiad skin splits, and the adult form emerges, starting the final transformation.
Adult The adult vagrant darter has fully formed wings and a slender, elongated body. Coloration often becomes more vibrant, and they gain the ability to fly, seeking out mates to reproduce.
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Adult Size of Vagrant darter
3.5 - 4 cm
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Predators of Vagrant darter Larvae
Amphibians such as frogs and toads, fish, aquatic insects including other dragonfly larvae, birds, predacious diving beetles
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Predators of Adult Vagrant darter
Birds, spiders, frogs and toads, bats, robber flies
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Interesting Facts About Vagrant darter
In their larval stage, vagrant darter breathe underwater using gills located in their rectum, and they can propel themselves by expelling water in a jet-like motion.
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Scientific Classification of Vagrant 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 Vagrant darter
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Youth Habitat of Vagrant darter
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Vagrant darter
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Vagrant darter
The use of trap food is not typically a method used to attract vagrant darter, as they are predatory insects that hunt live prey such as smaller insects and are not easily lured by stationary food sources.
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Habitat Preferences of Vagrant darter Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of vagrant darter are typically laid in still or slow-flowing water, often in ponds or marshes. The naiads, which are aquatic, can be found in these same habitats, lurking among submerged vegetation in search of prey. Adult vagrant darter, after emerging from the water following their final molt, are frequently seen in open fields, meadows, or near bodies of water where they hunt for smaller insects. To locate them, one would explore the edges of freshwater sources like lakes or rivers and look for these dragonflies perching on plants or flying swiftly in search of a mate or food.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Vagrant darter
The best time to find vagrant darter is typically on sunny and warm days, when these creatures are most active, generally late morning to afternoon.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Vagrant darter
Warm, calm, and sunny weather is ideal for finding vagrant darter, as they thrive in conditions where they can easily fly and hunt for prey without being hindered by strong winds or rain.
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How and Where Can You Find Vagrant darter at Different Life Stages
Egg Vagrant darter eggs are laid in water or on aquatic plants. To find them, carefully inspect the edges of ponds, lakes, or slow-moving streams for clusters of eggs attached to submerged vegetation.
Naiad Vagrant darter naiads are aquatic and found in bodies of fresh water, such as ponds and ditches. Look for them among aquatic plants or on the muddy bottom. Use a simple dip net to gently collect a sample and examine it in a clear container.
Adult Adult vagrant darter emerge from the naiadl exuviae near water bodies. To find emerging vagrant darter, visit a pond or stream in the early morning and look for them on vegetation, rocks, or other surfaces near the water's edge, where they climb to undergo metamorphosis.
Adult vagrant darter are commonly found near bodies of water but can also venture into gardens and fields. Look for them perching on vegetation, patrolling over water, or basking in sunny spots. Visit during the warmest part of the day, and walk slowly to avoid startling them.
Are Vagrant darter harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Vagrant darter
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Moths, Small Insects
The vagrant darter is a skilled hunter, both in its naiad and adult stages. As a naiad, it ambushes small aquatic prey, using stealth and a surprise attack. As an adult, it captures flying insects in mid-air with incredible aerial agility. Predation serves primarily to satisfy its own hunger, although mates might be impressed by its hunting skill. Such pursuit for nourishment reflects a crucial ecological role in controlling pest populations.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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