Willow Emerald Damselfly Identification
Introducing the Willow Emerald, a captivating creature that graces the skies alongside its fellow flyer, the Emerald Damselfly. This entomological marvel is widespread, capturing the attention of entomologists and nature enthusiasts alike. Both males and females of this species possess slightly shorter bodies, distinguishing them from their counterparts. Notably, their pterostigma, those intricate wing spots, are dark in both sexes (although they appear pale in their early stages of life, known as tenerals).
For the mature male Emerald Damselflies, prepare to be mesmerized by their powdery blue iridescence and striking blue eyes. However, females and immature individuals lack these vivid hues, displaying a different but equally captivating charm. While both males and females may exhibit a dark green spur on the side of their thorax, it is not as pronounced as that of the Willow Emerald. Additionally, the upper anal appendages of male Emerald Damselflies are dark, contrary to the light ones found in their Willow Emerald counterparts. Furthermore, their lower appendages are noticeably longer than those of the Willow Emerald, a distinctive feature that sets them apart. Females, on the other hand, sport a dark ovipositor, adding to their allure.
Measuring between 42 to 47mm in length for males and 39 to 44mm for females, the Emerald Damselfly demands attention with its shimmering metallic green hue. Its pale pterostigma, or wing spots, are skillfully outlined in black, accentuating their ethereal beauty.
In the realm of Lestes larvae, the Emerald Damselfly continues to captivate. These larvae possess elongated abdomens and large caudal lamellae, which contribute to their distinctive appearance. However, unlike other species within the Lestes genus, their mask does not adopt the elongated, racket-shaped form.
Beyond their enthralling characteristics, the presence of the Willow Emerald Damselfly, as well as all damselflies, signifies an ecosystem of excellent quality with suitable freshwater conditions. However, these majestic Odonata species are vulnerable to the detrimental effects of human impact. Activities such as agriculture-driven drainage, deforestation, water pollution, groundwater depletion, and wetland degradation collectively diminish their habitats. Therefore, it is crucial to protect and preserve these delicate ecosystems to ensure the continued existence of these magnificent creatures.
Willow Emerald Damselfly Life Cycle
The female Willow Emerald inserts her eggs below the bark of willow branches overhanging the water, creating incisions in the bark.
The eggs laid in the bark develop rapidly for a few weeks, resulting in distinct oval galls forming in the shrub's bark.
The eggs enter a diapause state, during which their development slows down significantly. This state allows the eggs to overwinter until the following spring.
In the spring, the eggs hatch, and the larvae drop into the water to begin their development.
The larvae undergo rapid growth and development in the water. This stage can last for a couple of months.
After completing their development, the immature adults emerge from the water and move away from the water bodies to mature.
During this stage of their life cycle, the immature adults are unable to breed. They require time for their reproductive organs to develop fully.
The non-breeding period also prevents the adults from breeding too early in the season. It ensures that the females do not lay eggs that would hatch prematurely and result in larval death due to winter temperatures.
Once fully mature, the adults return to the water bodies and engage in breeding activities, continuing the life cycle of the Willow Emerald insect.
Willow Emerald Damselfly FAQs
Are Willow Emerald Damselfly Dangerous?
Mature males defend vertical territories in marginal shrubs and small trees.
What Do Willow Emerald Damselfly Eat?
The diet of adult Willow Emerald Damselflies consists primarily of small insects. Their compound eyes, which are composed of numerous individual photoreception units, along with their exceptional aerial skills, make it difficult for their prey to escape.
Where Can I Find a Willow Emerald Damselfly?
The Willow Emerald Damselflies are commonly found near ponds, canals, or other bodies of still water that have overhanging trees. They have a distinctive behavior of spending a significant amount of time in trees. They prefer habitats with shrubs or trees surrounding water bodies such as ponds, lakes, canals, and slow-flowing river sections. Adult damselflies are often seen perched on the tips of branches, with their wings held at a characteristic 45-degree angle. The presence of ovipositing scars on young willow shoots, particularly those hanging over the water, indicates the local breeding and existence of this species.
What Attracts Willow Emerald Damselfly?
Willow and Alder's trees are favored by Willow Emerald Damselflies, although they may also utilize other soft-barked tree species. They tend to perch on bare, leafless branches in the sunlight, which makes it easier to observe them.
What's the Willow Emerald Damselfly Distribution?
The Willow Emerald Damselflies are found in southern and central Europe, as well as in North Africa. It can be seen on various Mediterranean islands, including Corsica, Sicily, Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza, as well as in the Maghreb region of North Africa, Turkey, and the Middle East.
Willow Emerald Damselfly Video
Sources:
- Image 1 - bssmnt52
- Image 2 - hosquillar
- Image 3 - gailhampshire
- Image 4 - Thomas Bresson
