Terrestrial evening darner facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Terrestrial evening darner |
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The terrestrial evening darner (Antipodophlebia asthenes) is a special kind of dragonfly. It belongs to a group of dragonflies called Telephlebiidae. This amazing insect is known for its quiet, dull colors. It is also a medium-sized dragonfly.
This unique creature lives only in eastern Australia. You can often spot it flying close to the ground. It prefers to fly during the evening as the sun sets. Antipodophlebia asthenes is the only species in its entire genus, Antipodophlebia. This makes it very special!
Contents
What is a Dragonfly?
Dragonflies are ancient insects. They have been flying around for millions of years. They are known for their strong wings and big eyes. Dragonflies are often confused with damselflies. However, dragonflies usually hold their wings flat when resting. Damselflies fold their wings over their backs.
Dragonfly Life Cycle
Dragonflies start their lives in water. They hatch from eggs as nymphs. These nymphs live underwater for months or even years. They hunt small water creatures. When they are ready, they climb out of the water. Then, they shed their skin one last time. This is when they become adult dragonflies.
Meet the Terrestrial Evening Darner
The terrestrial evening darner is a unique dragonfly. Its scientific name is Antipodophlebia asthenes. It was first described by a scientist named Robert John Tillyard in 1916. This dragonfly is not brightly colored. Instead, it has duller shades. This might help it blend in with its surroundings.
Where Does It Live?
This particular dragonfly is endemic to eastern Australia. This means it is found nowhere else in the world. It lives in specific habitats there. These habitats provide the right conditions for its life cycle. It needs both water for its young and land for the adults.
Its Unique Habits
The terrestrial evening darner has an interesting habit. It flies low to the ground. It also prefers to fly at dusk. Dusk is the time just before night. Most other dragonflies are active during the day. This makes the evening darner quite unusual. Its dull colors might help it stay hidden during its evening flights.
Why is it Special?
Antipodophlebia asthenes is the only known species in its genus. A genus is a group of very similar species. This means there are no other dragonflies exactly like it. This makes it a very important species for scientists to study. It helps us understand how different dragonflies evolved.
Gallery
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Female wings
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Male wings
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