Tetrathemis irregularis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rainforest elf |
|
|---|---|
_(8076653781).jpg) |
|
| Tetrathemis irregularis, Malaysia | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
 |
The rainforest elf (scientific name: Tetrathemis irregularis) is a very small and thin type of dragonfly. It belongs to a family of dragonflies called Libellulidae. These little insects are easy to spot because they have cool black and yellow markings.
About the Rainforest Elf Dragonfly
The rainforest elf is one of the smallest dragonflies you might find. It has a long, slender body, which means it's quite thin. Its bright black and yellow colors help it blend in or stand out in its rainforest home. Dragonflies are known for their amazing flying skills, and the rainforest elf is no exception!
Where the Rainforest Elf Lives
You can find the rainforest elf living near streams in thick rainforests. They love places with lots of trees and water. Their main homes are in north-eastern Australia and parts of Southeast Asia. This includes a group of islands called the Aru Islands. They spend their lives around these watery areas, hunting for food and flying around.
Different Kinds of Rainforest Elves
Just like some animals have different types or "breeds," the rainforest elf has two main subspecies. A subspecies is a group of animals within a species that are a bit different from each other.
- Tetrathemis irregularis irregularis was first described by a scientist named Brauer in 1868. You can find this type of rainforest elf in South-east Asia and a large island called New Guinea.
- Tetrathemis irregularis cladophila was described by another scientist, Tillyard, in 1908. This subspecies lives in Australia and the Aru Islands.
Even though they are slightly different, both subspecies are still rainforest elves!
