Among the dragonfly species (order Odonata), we found the common dragonfly ( Anax junius ), the emperor dragonfly ( Anax imperator ), and the blue dragonfly ( Calopteryx virgo ). These insects are very common, and although many people believe that dragonflies bite, this is not the case: their mouthparts are specifically used to catch other insects.
Common dragonfly ( Anax junius )
The common dragonfly, also known as the green dragonfly, is a species of dragonfly in the genus *Anax*, belonging to the order *Odonata*. Native to the Americas, it can migrate up to 2800 kilometers, flying from the northern United States to Mexico at speeds up to 85 kilometers per hour. It is large and elongated, and commonly found near lakes, ponds, streams, and wetlands.
Emperor Dragonfly ( Anax imperator )
The Emperor Dragonfly is the largest dragonfly in Western Europe, reaching up to 8 cm in length and 12 cm in wingspan; some individuals have been recorded reaching 20 cm in length. It is renowned for its exceptional flight ability and keen eyesight, enabling it to prey on other insects in flight. It has a slender body and vibrant colors, commonly blue and green.
Blue dragonfly ( Calopteryx virgo )
Also known as the beautiful maiden dragonfly, it is native to Europe. It typically inhabits streams with low temperatures and moderate to strong currents, often surrounded by riparian forests. Its larvae are sensitive to oxygen concentration in the water, making it an indicator species for good water quality. The adults are strikingly bright blue-green with a metallic sheen.
Scarlet dragonfly ( Crocothemis erythraea )
Distributed in parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia, it inhabits vegetation near flowing or still water. It has a relatively broad and elongated body; the male has a bright red abdomen, hence its name. Females and juveniles are yellowish-brown.
Flat-bellied dragonfly ( Libellula depressa )
Widely distributed in Europe and Central Asia, it prefers still or slow-flowing waters such as ponds, streams, and lakes with dense shoreline vegetation. Females have a deep yellow abdomen, while males have a light blue one. It is easily confused with the similar species *Orthetrum cancellatum* , but this species has a wider, flatter abdomen and distinct brown triangular spots at the base of its wings.
Tiger dragonfly ( Trithemis kirbyi )
Primarily distributed in Africa and southwestern Asia, it is named for the striking patterns on its body and wings. Males are bright red with black spots on their wings, while females are paler. They are territorial, with males driving away intruders. Their keen eyesight and agile flight are excellent indicators of ecological health as they hunt prey.
Buenos Aires Green Dragonfly ( Rhionaeschna bonariensis )
Named after its geographical location (Buenos Aires, Argentina), it is distributed in the lowland forests and grasslands of southern Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It measures approximately 50–58 mm in length and is brown or gray with blue or yellow spots.
Orange-spotted dragonfly ( Pantala flavescens )
Commonly known as the yellow dragonfly or long-distance migratory dragonfly, it is medium to large in size, with a wingspan of up to 9 centimeters. Its body is yellowish-brown, and its wings are transparent. It is widely distributed in tropical, subtropical, and temperate waters worldwide. Known for its long migration distances, it can fly thousands of kilometers and often moves in flocks. During the breeding season, males attract females through spectacular flight displays.
Water damselfly ( Ischnura fluviatilis )
Also known as the blue damselfly, it belongs to the family Coenagrionidae. Unlike most dragonflies, it can fold its wings when resting. It is distributed in humid regions from Venezuela to northern Argentina. The larvae are natural enemies of pests such as mosquitoes, and have important biological control value.
Red damselfly ( Pyrrhosoma nymphula )
Also known as the red dragonfly, it measures approximately 3.5–4.5 cm in length and has a wingspan of 4.5–6 cm, belonging to the family Achyranthesidae. Its abdomen is red with black rings, and its wings are transparent. It is distributed in freshwater ponds, lakes, and streams in parts of Europe and Asia, preferring areas rich in aquatic plants.
