Black Darter vs Hagen's Dustywing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Black Darter Hagen's Dustywing
Scientific Name Sympetrum danae Coniopteryx hageniana
Order Odonata Neuroptera
Family Libellulidae Coniopterygidae
Size 29-34mm 3-4 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Orchards
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Europe, Asia, North America Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Black Darter

Britain s smallest dragonfly where mature males become entirely jet black, unique among European dragonflies. Females and immatures are yellow with black markings. It prefers acidic boggy habitats.

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Did You Know?

Males are the only entirely black dragonfly in Europe, making them unmistakable at acidic bog pools.

Hagen's Dustywing

A minute dustywing found across Europe and known for its effectiveness against orchard mites. Easily overlooked due to its tiny size.

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Did You Know?

Despite being barely visible to the naked eye, it can consume dozens of mites per day.