Chalcolestes viridis (Vander Linden, 1825)
Western Willow Spreadwing

Synonyms:

• scientific: Lestes viridis

Type locality: , no locality data available.

Diagnosis

For the identification of this species, please refer to the genus Lestes and species L. viridis in: Dijkstra, K.-D.B. & R. Lewington, 2006. Field guide to the Dragonflies of Britain and Europe. British Wildlife Publishing. 1-320.

Habitat description

Rivers, streams and headwaters in open areas in forest or shaded by gallery forest: this is unlike further north (Europe) where standing waters are often favoured. The species lays eggs in bark and thus found often with emergent vegetation, overhanging branches and/or submerged roots, probably especially at calmer sections (like pools). From 0 to 1400 m above sea level, but mostly below 600, although possibly up to 1700.

Distribution

Map citation: Clausnitzer, V., K.-D.B. Dijkstra, R. Koch, J.-P. Boudot, W.R.T. Darwall, J. Kipping, B. Samraoui, M.J. Samways, J.P. Simaika & F. Suhling, 2012. Focus on African Freshwaters: hotspots of dragonfly diversity and conservation concern. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 10: 129-134.

Reference

• Vander Linden, P.L. (1825). Monographiae Libellulinarum Europaearum Specimen. J. Frank, Bruxelles, 1-42.

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-10-31].