Flame flatwing facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Flame flatwing
Female
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification

The Flame flatwing (Austroargiolestes amabilis) is a beautiful type of damselfly found only in eastern Australia. It gets its common name "flame flatwing" because of its bright colors and how it rests with its wings spread out flat. This insect is a medium to large size, known for its striking black and bright yellow-orange body.

What is a Damselfly?

Damselflies are amazing insects that are often confused with dragonflies. They belong to a group of insects called Odonata. Both damselflies and dragonflies have two pairs of strong, see-through wings and large eyes.

However, there are a few ways to tell them apart. When a damselfly rests, it usually holds its wings together over its back, or, like the Flame flatwing, spreads them out flat. Dragonflies, on the other hand, usually hold their wings straight out to the sides. Damselflies also tend to be smaller and more slender than dragonflies. Their eyes are also usually separated, while a dragonfly's eyes often touch.

Appearance of the Flame Flatwing

The Flame flatwing is easy to spot because of its unique look. It has a body that is mostly black, but with bright yellow-orange markings. These vibrant colors make it stand out in its natural home.

Unlike some other insects, the Flame flatwing does not have a powdery coating called "pruinescence." This means its colors always look clear and bright. Like other damselflies in its family, the Megapodagrionidae, it has a special way of resting. It keeps its wings spread wide open, almost like an airplane, instead of folding them back.

Where the Flame Flatwing Lives

The Flame flatwing is an endemic species, which means it is found only in a specific area. For the Flame flatwing, that area is eastern Australia. It loves to live near streams that flow through rainforests. These rainforests provide the perfect environment with plenty of water and lush plants.

Damselflies, including the Flame flatwing, spend the first part of their lives in water. Their young, called nymphs, live underwater and hunt tiny aquatic creatures. Once they are ready, they climb out of the water, shed their skin, and become the beautiful winged adults we see flying around.

Gallery

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  Tip of female tail

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  Tip of male tail

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  Female wings

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  Male wings