Powdered flatwing facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Powdered flatwing
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Arthropoda
Class:	Insecta
Order:	Odonata
Suborder:	Zygoptera
Family:	Megapodagrionidae
Genus:	Austroargiolestes
Species:	A. calcaris
Binomial name
Austroargiolestes calcaris (Fraser, 1958)
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The Powdered Flatwing (scientific name: Austroargiolestes calcaris) is a fascinating type of damselfly found only in Australia. It belongs to a family of damselflies called Megapodagrionidae. This insect gets its common name, "powdered flatwing," from a special dusty coating it develops as it grows older.

Discover the Powdered Flatwing

The Powdered Flatwing is a medium to large-sized damselfly. It has a striking appearance, with a body that is mostly black and pale yellow. When these damselflies become adults, they develop a unique powdery coating. This coating, called pruinescence, makes them look like they've been dusted with a light powder.

Where Does It Live?

This special damselfly is found only in south-eastern Australia. This means it is endemic to that region, and you won't find it naturally anywhere else in the world! The Powdered Flatwing prefers to live near water. You can often spot them around streams, deep pools, and bogs. They especially like areas that are in the mountains.

How Does It Rest?

One interesting thing about the Powdered Flatwing is how it rests. Unlike some other insects that fold their wings, this damselfly keeps its wings spread out wide. This is a common trait for many damselflies in the Megapodagrionidae family.

Similar Species

The Powdered Flatwing looks quite similar to another damselfly called Austroargiolestes isabellae. That species is typically found in the Sydney Basin area of Australia.

Gallery

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  Tip of female tail

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  Tip of male tail

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  Female wings

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  Male wings