Common Darter vs Tau Emerald
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Darter | Tau Emerald |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sympetrum striolatum | Hemicordulia tau |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae | Corduliidae |
| Size | 35-44 mm body length | 55-60mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe, Northern Europe | Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Darter
Europe's most abundant dragonfly, with mature males turning bright orange-red. It is often the last dragonfly flying in autumn, sometimes into November.
Did You Know?
Mating pairs lay eggs by repeatedly dipping the female's abdomen into the water while flying in tandem.
Tau Emerald
A metallic emerald-green dragonfly with bright green eyes and a distinctive T-shaped yellow marking on the abdomen. It is one of the most common dragonflies in Australia. Males patrol relentlessly.
Did You Know?
The yellow tau-shaped mark on its abdomen gives it both its scientific and common name.