Mesagrion leucorrhinum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mesagrion leucorrhinum |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Mesagrion
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| Species: |
leucorrhinum
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The Mesagrion leucorrhinum is a special kind of damselfly. It's the only species in its genus called Mesagrion. This damselfly is so unique that scientists have given it its very own family, the Mesagrionidae. This change happened in 2021 after new studies looked closely at its DNA.
This damselfly lives only in Colombia, a country in South America. You can find it in moist montane forests, which are forests on mountains, and near rivers. Sadly, its home is shrinking because of habitat loss, which means it's becoming harder for these damselflies to find places to live and thrive.
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What is a Damselfly?
A damselfly is a type of insect that looks a lot like a dragonfly. They both belong to a group of insects called Odonata. Damselflies are usually smaller and more slender than dragonflies.
Damselfly vs. Dragonfly
There are a few easy ways to tell them apart. When a damselfly rests, it usually holds its wings together over its back. Dragonflies, on the other hand, often hold their wings out flat to the sides. Also, damselflies have eyes that are usually separated, while a dragonfly's eyes often touch each other.
Where Mesagrion leucorrhinum Lives
This particular damselfly, Mesagrion leucorrhinum, is found only in Colombia. This means it is an endemic species. It cannot be found naturally anywhere else in the world.
Its Natural Home
These damselflies prefer specific places to live. They like subtropical and tropical moist montane forests. These are forests that get a lot of rain and are found on mountains in warmer parts of the world. They also need clean rivers nearby. The rivers are important for their life cycle, especially when they are young.
Why This Damselfly is Important
Every species plays a role in its ecosystem. Damselflies, like Mesagrion leucorrhinum, are often good signs of a healthy environment. If their numbers start to drop, it can mean that the forests and rivers they live in are in trouble.
Threats to Its Survival
The biggest danger to the Mesagrion leucorrhinum is habitat loss. This happens when their natural homes are destroyed or changed by human activities. For example, forests might be cut down for farming or building, or rivers might become polluted. Protecting these special places helps protect the damselflies and many other animals and plants that live there.
See also
- In Spanish: Libélula para niños
