Synthemis facts for kids
Synthemis is a special group, or genus, of dragonflies. They are part of a family called Synthemistidae. These dragonflies are usually medium-sized and have a slender body. They are often black and yellow, making them quite striking to see!
Quick facts for kids Synthemis |
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Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Odonata |
| Infraorder: | Anisoptera |
| Family: | Synthemistidae |
| Genus: | Synthemis Selys, 1870 |
What are Synthemis Dragonflies?
Synthemis dragonflies are known for their sleek look. They are not too big, but they are very fast flyers. Their black and yellow colors help them blend in with their surroundings or warn predators. Like all dragonflies, they are amazing hunters. They catch smaller insects right out of the air!
Where Do They Live?
Most Synthemis dragonflies live in places like Australia. They prefer areas near water, such as swamps, rivers, and streams. This is because dragonflies lay their eggs in water. Their young, called nymphs, live underwater before they grow into adult dragonflies.
Different Kinds of Synthemis Dragonflies
There are many different species within the Synthemis group. Each species has its own unique features, but they all share the general black and yellow look. Some of them even have special names that tell us where they live, like the Tasmanian swamp tigertail.
Here are some of the known species:
- Synthemis ariadne Lieftinck, 1975
- Synthemis campioni Lieftinck, 1971
- Synthemis eustalacta (Burmeister, 1839) - swamp tigertail
- Synthemis fenella Campion, 1921
- Synthemis feronia Lieftinck, 1938
- Synthemis flexicauda Campion, 1921
- Synthemis macrostigma Selys, 1871
- Synthemis miranda Selys, 1871
- Synthemis montaguei Campion, 1921
- Synthemis pamelae Davies, 2002
- Synthemis serendipita Winstanley, 1984
- Synthemis tasmanica Tillyard, 1910 - Tasmanian swamp tigertail
