Austrophya facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Rainforest mystic
Male, north Queensland
Conservation status
Near Threatened (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Arthropoda
Class:	Insecta
Order:	Odonata
Infraorder:	Anisoptera
Family:	Austrocorduliidae
Genus:	Austrophya Tillyard, 1909
Species:	A. mystica
Binomial name
Austrophya mystica Tillyard, 1909
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The Rainforest mystic (Austrophya mystica) is a special type of dragonfly found only in the rainforests of north-eastern Australia. It's a small, slender dragonfly with a shiny, bronze-black body. This amazing insect belongs to a group of dragonflies called Austrophya, and it's the only species in that group.

About the Rainforest Mystic

The Rainforest mystic is a unique insect that loves living near streams in the rainforest. It's known for its beautiful, dark appearance.

What is a Dragonfly?

Dragonflies are flying insects with large eyes, strong bodies, and two pairs of transparent wings. They are often seen near water, like ponds, lakes, and streams. Dragonflies are known for being excellent flyers and skilled hunters, catching other insects in the air.

Where Does it Live?

The Rainforest mystic is endemic to north-eastern Australia. This means it is found naturally only in that specific part of the world and nowhere else. It prefers to live near rainforest streams, where it can find food and lay its eggs.

What Does it Look Like?

The Rainforest mystic is a small and thin dragonfly. Its body is a striking bronze-black color, which helps it blend in with its rainforest home. Like all dragonflies, it has four wings that allow it to fly quickly and gracefully through the air.

Gallery

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  Male from below, Queensland

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  Female Austrophya mystica wings

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  Male Austrophya mystica wings