Names and Taxonomy
- Common Names:
- Synonyms:
- Order: Odonata (Damsel-Dragonflies)
- Family: Libellulidae (Skimmers)
- Genus Information: 1 species in US
Pachydiplax longipennis
Blue Dasher
Introduction:
Although the species name longipennis means 'long wings', their wings are not substantially longer than those of related species. Females do, however, have a short abdomen that makes the wings appear longer in comparison. The males are easy to recognize with their vibrant blue color, yellow-striped thorax, and metallic green eyes. Females are somewhat less colorful than the male, an example of sexual dimorphism. While they have a matching yellow-striped thorax, their abdomen has a distinct brown and yellow striping that sets them apart from the male, along with contrasting red eyes. Both sexes develop a frosted color with age.
Life Cycle: Pachydiplax longipennis larvae exhibit asynchronous emergence, meaning that the larvae do not emerge at the same time as one another. Based on general time of emergence, this species is still classified as a summer species
Size 1-1.5 inches (25–43 mm)
Sexual Dimorphism: true
Metamorphosis: incomplete (egg, nymph, adult)
