Taxonomy
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Odonata
Family: Calopterygidae
Genus: Calopteryx
Species: Calopteryx virgo
Conservation Status of the Species in Portugal and Worldwide
Portugal
World
Features and
Habits
In terms of size, it has a wingspan between 4.5 cm and 5 cm. Regarding its distinguishing characteristics, in terms of coloration, the male is metallic blue and the female is metallic green or brown. Something that distinguishes this dragonfly from other dragonflies, besides its color, is its smaller, laterally positioned eyes. Its flight is similar to other dragonflies, but also resembles that of butterflies.
It feeds on small insects, such as mosquitoes and flies, and is important in pest control. They reproduce during the warmer months, between May and September, when they are also most active. Females lay their eggs in submerged aquatic vegetation or on rocks. The eggs hatch after a few weeks. The larvae complete metamorphosis in the water between 1 and 2 years.
Habitat and Distribution
It is a common insect; however, it is considerably more present in the north of the country, being extremely rare in the south. Its habitats are aquatic, with calm, flowing water such as streams and rivers, and also some lakes, preferably in areas with high forest density. Some locations in Portugal where it is most frequently observed are the Gerês, Estrela, and São Mamede mountain ranges. In the south, there are some records in the Monchique mountain range.
Places where I have photographed this species so far.
All Photographs Taken
