Australian Emerald vs Purple Dun
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Emerald | Purple Dun |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemicordulia australiae | Paraleptophlebia adoptiva |
| Order | Odonata | Ephemeroptera |
| Family | Corduliidae | Leptophlebiidae |
| Size | Body 4-5 cm; wingspan 6-7 cm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Australia, New Zealand | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Emerald
A metallic green-eyed dragonfly common near ponds and slow streams across Australia. It hovers sentrylike over water, earning its alternate name of Sentry Dragonfly.
Did You Know?
It is sometimes called the Sentry Dragonfly because it hovers motionless over water for extended periods.
Purple Dun
A small dark mayfly with purplish-gray wings found in eastern streams. Nymphs crawl among submerged leaf packs in moderate current.
Did You Know?
Females drop their egg masses onto the water surface from a height of several feet while in flight.