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Bronze needle facts for kids

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Bronze needle
Synlestes weyersii female (15801858233).jpg
Female
Synlestes weyersii male lateral (16235718399).jpg
Male
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Synlestes weyersii distribution map.svg

The Synlestes weyersii is a fascinating insect known as the bronze needle. It's a type of damselfly that belongs to the family Synlestidae. This special creature is found only in south-eastern Australia. It loves to live near fresh water, like streams and rivers.

Meet the Bronze Needle Damselfly

The bronze needle is a unique insect. It's known for its striking appearance and where it chooses to live. Damselflies are often confused with dragonflies, but they have some key differences. For example, most damselflies hold their wings together over their back when resting. The bronze needle, however, often keeps its wings partially or fully spread out.

What Does It Look Like?

The bronze needle is a large damselfly. It can even be very large compared to other damselflies. Its body is a beautiful metallic bronze-black or green-black color. It also has bright yellow markings that stand out. These colors help it blend in with its surroundings, like plants and shadows near the water.

Where Does It Live?

This damselfly is endemic to south-eastern Australia. This means it naturally lives only in that specific part of the world. You won't find it anywhere else! It prefers habitats with clean, flowing water. This includes streams and rivers where it can hunt for smaller insects and find mates. Protecting these watery homes is important for the bronze needle's survival.

Amazing Damselfly Facts

Damselflies are incredible hunters. They have excellent eyesight, thanks to their large compound eyes. These eyes help them spot tiny insects in the air. They are also very fast and agile flyers. This allows them to catch their prey while flying. Damselflies play an important role in their ecosystem. They help control populations of other insects, like mosquitoes.

More Pictures of the Bronze Needle

  • Synlestes weyersii female rump (15801845663)

    Female

  • Synlestes weyersii male dorsal wings out (16235694679)

    Male

  • Synlestes weyersii male shoulder close (16234314548)

    Male body

  • Synlestes weyersii male tail tip (16234340878)

    Tip of male tail

  • Australian insects (Plate VIII) (7268226282)

    Image 2, Synlestes weyersii 1907

  • Synlestes weyersii female wings (34600858142)

    Female wings

  • Synlestes weyersii male wings (34631117171)

    Male wings

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Bronze needle Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.