Lestes facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Lestes
female Lestes sponsa
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Arthropoda
Class:	Insecta
Order:	Odonata
Suborder:	Zygoptera
Family:	Lestidae
Genus:	Lestes Leach, 1815

Lestes is a group of damselflies that are part of the Lestidae family. These amazing insects are often called "spreadwings" because of how they hold their wings.

Unlike most other damselflies that keep their wings flat along their body when they rest, Lestes damselflies hold their wings slightly open. They hold them at about a 45-degree angle to their body. This unique way of resting helps you tell them apart from other damselflies!

The name Lestes comes from an old Greek word, "lēistēs." This word means "predator," which makes sense because damselflies are hunters of smaller insects.

What are Lestes Damselflies?

Lestes damselflies are slender insects with two pairs of clear wings. They are closely related to dragonflies, but damselflies are usually smaller and have thinner bodies. They also fold their wings differently when they are not flying.

These insects are found all over the world, often near ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. They need water to lay their eggs and for their young to grow.

Lestes Species Around the World

The Lestes group includes many different species, each with its own unique features. Scientists have identified many types of Lestes damselflies. Here are a few examples:

Each of these species might have slightly different colors, sizes, or habitats. They all share the common trait of holding their wings in that special "spreadwing" way.

Gallery

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  Lestes barbarus

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  Lestes concinnus

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  Lestes elatus teneral male

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  Lestes virens male

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  Lestes viridulus