IDENTITY RECORD

Sympetrum Depressiusculum

SCIENTIFIC NAME

Sympetrum depressiusculum

DescrIption

A small species of dragonfly (20-24 mm), I have a slightly flat body (hence my name). I range from yellow to orange in color and my abdomen is punctuated by a series of black drop-like spots. My legs are completely black.

Behavior

Diet

Carnivorous, my larvae feed on small aquatic invertebrates while at the adult stage I catch small insects.

Reproduction

The male and female mate in the tandem position. The female lays eggs among the aquatic plants (sedge, reeds). The eggs hatch the following spring. The larvae stage is relatively quick, lasting six to eight weeks.

Where and when can you find me in the reserve?

Habitat

You can find me around tranquil waterbodies (ponds, lakes, ox-bows) and close to slow-moving water courses. I look for areas with a high concentration of aquatic plants that which heat up quickly.

When to spot me

You can find me on the wing from June to October.

Did you know?

You might confuse me with other dragonflies in the Sympetrum genus, especially the Sympetrum sanguin, which is also small.

Conservation status

• Red list of Odonata in metropolitan France: Endangered (EN).
• Red list of endangered Odonata in Alsace: Vulnerable (VU).