Budwing Mantis vs Reunion Riverjack
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Budwing Mantis | Reunion Riverjack |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Parasphendale affinis | Zygonyx elisabethae |
| Order | Mantodea | Odonata |
| Family | Mantidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 40-60 mm | 5-7 cm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Mountains |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Africa | Reunion |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Critically Endangered |
Budwing Mantis
A sturdy, aggressive mantis from East Africa named for the bud-like wing stubs of the females, who are mostly flightless. Males are slender with full wings.
Did You Know?
Budwing mantises are among the most aggressive mantis species and have been observed attacking prey larger than themselves, including small lizards.
Reunion Riverjack
A large dragonfly endemic to the island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean. It patrols waterfalls and fast-flowing mountain streams.
Did You Know?
Deforestation and damming of Reunion's rivers have severely reduced its available breeding habitat.