Sydney flatwing facts for kids

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

The Sydney flatwing (scientific name: Austroargiolestes isabellae) is a special type of damselfly found only in Australia. It belongs to a family of damselflies called Megapodagrionidae. This insect gets its common name because it lives in the Sydney area. You can usually find it near streams and wet, boggy places.

Meet the Sydney Flatwing

The Sydney flatwing is a medium to large-sized damselfly. It has a striking look with its black and pale yellow body. Sometimes, adult flatwings have a powdery, light-colored coating on their bodies. This coating is called pruinescence. It makes them look a bit dusty or frosted.

Just like other damselflies in its family, the Sydney flatwing has a unique way of resting. Instead of folding its wings back over its body like some other insects, it keeps them spread out flat. This is why it's called a "flatwing"!

Where Does It Live?

This damselfly is quite special because it is endemic to the Sydney district. This means you won't find the Sydney flatwing living naturally anywhere else in the world! It prefers to live near fresh water, like small streams. It also likes boggy areas, which are wet, marshy places with soft ground. These habitats provide the perfect home for the Sydney flatwing to grow and thrive.

Gallery

• 

  From above

• 

  Female

• 

  Tip of female tail

• 

  Tip of female tail

• 

  Tip of male tail

• 

  Female wings

• Austroargiolestes isabellae male wings (34664713572.jpg

  Male wings