Drakensberg malachite facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Drakensberg malachite |
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| Male | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Chlorolestes
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| Species: |
draconicus
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| Synonyms | |
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Chlorolestes draconica Balinsky, 1956 [orth. error] |
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Chlorolestes draconicus, the Drakensberg malachite, is a species of damselfly in the family Synlestidae.
Distribution and status
This species has a restricted range in the Drakensberg mountains of Lesotho and South Africa. Its conservation status has been assessed as Least Concern as much of its range falls within the uKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park.
Habitat
Its natural habitat is rocky streams at high altitude (1700–3000 m).
Identification
Where Chlorolestes draconicus is found, it is usually outnumbered by the similar Chlorolestes fasciatus. Key differences between these species are the shape of the antehumeral stripe and the shape of the appendages. Chlorolestes draconicus is also larger and darker than Chlorolestes fasciatus.
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Male
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Male
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Detail of male abdomen; ventral view
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Detail of male abdomen; lateral view
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Female
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Female
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Female
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Comparison of the thoracic patterns of the Drakensberg malachite (top) and the mountain malachite
