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Tropical shutwing facts for kids

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Tropical shutwing
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Cordulephya bidens distribution map.svg

The tropical shutwing (scientific name: Cordulephya bidens) is a special type of dragonfly. It belongs to a family of dragonflies called Cordulephyidae. This small insect lives in the warm, wet rainforests of northern Queensland, Australia.

Cordulephya bidens is known for its unique way of resting. Unlike most dragonflies that keep their wings spread out, the tropical shutwing folds its wings above its body. This is similar to how a damselfly rests.

About the Tropical Shutwing

The tropical shutwing is a very small dragonfly. It usually has a dark body, which can be black or a purplish-black color. It also has bright yellowish marks on its body. These markings help it stand out against its dark background.

Where It Lives

This dragonfly makes its home in the rainforests of northern Queensland, Australia. It prefers to live near streams within these forests. Rainforests are very important habitats because they provide the perfect conditions for many unique animals and plants, including the tropical shutwing.

How It Rests

One of the most interesting things about the tropical shutwing is how it rests. When it's not flying, it folds its wings together over its back. This is different from most dragonflies, which usually keep their wings flat and spread out to the sides. This resting position makes it look a bit like a damselfly, even though it is a true dragonfly.

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