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Forest needle facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Forest Needle (Synlestes selysi) is a type of damselfly found only in Australia. It belongs to the Synlestidae family. People often call it the "forest needle" because of its long, slender body. This damselfly lives in streams in eastern New South Wales and eastern Queensland. Being "endemic" means it is found naturally only in these specific areas.


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Forest needle
Synlestes selysi female dorsal.jpg
Female
Synlestes selysi male.jpg
Male
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Synlestes selysi distribution map.svg

Meet the Forest Needle Damselfly

The Forest Needle is a big damselfly. It can be quite large! Its body is a shiny, metallic green-black color. It also has some lighter, pale markings. When it rests, it holds its wings open. This is a bit different from some other damselflies that fold their wings back.

Where Does the Forest Needle Live?

This special damselfly lives only in Australia. You can find it in the eastern parts of New South Wales and Queensland. It prefers to live near streams. These streams are its home where it hunts and lays its eggs.

What Does it Look Like?

The Forest Needle damselfly is known for its size. It is considered a large to very large damselfly. Its body has a cool metallic green-black color. It also has lighter spots or patterns on its body. These markings help it blend in with its surroundings.

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