Flame-headed riverdamsel facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Flame-headed riverdamsel
Queensland, Australia
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification

The flame-headed riverdamsel (Pseudagrion ignifer) is a fascinating insect. It is a type of damselfly that belongs to the family Coenagrionidae. These colorful creatures are often seen flying near streams in eastern Australia.

What is a Damselfly?

Damselflies are insects that look a lot like small dragonflies. They are part of a group called Odonata. One easy way to tell them apart is by their wings when they are resting. Damselflies usually fold their wings together over their back. Dragonflies, however, often keep their wings spread out flat. Damselflies also tend to have thinner bodies than dragonflies.

Meet the Flame-headed Riverdamsel

What Does It Look Like?

The flame-headed riverdamsel is a medium-sized damselfly. It gets its name from its bright orange face, which can look like a small flame! Its body has a special powdery coating on its sides. This coating is called "pruinose." It can make the damselfly look a bit frosty or dusty, especially near the start of its tail.

Where Does It Live?

You can find the flame-headed riverdamsel in eastern Australia. It loves to live near streams. These small rivers provide the perfect home for young damselflies. The young damselflies are called nymphs. They grow underwater before they become adults and fly.

Its Scientific Name and Family

The scientific name for this damselfly is Pseudagrion ignifer. It was first described by a scientist named Robert John Tillyard in 1906. This damselfly is part of the family Coenagrionidae. This family includes many different types of damselflies found around the world.

Gallery

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  Female wings

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  Male wings