Common Malaria Mosquito vs Emperor Dragonfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Malaria Mosquito Emperor Dragonfly
Scientific Name Anopheles quadrimaculatus Anax imperator
Order Diptera Odonata
Family Culicidae Aeshnidae
Size 4-6 mm 66-84 mm body, 78 mm wingspan
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Blood Feeders Omnivores
Regions North America Europe, Africa, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Malaria Mosquito

A freshwater mosquito that was the primary malaria vector in the eastern United States. Larvae float horizontally at the water surface in slow-moving waters.

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Did You Know?

It is named for the four dark spots on each wing that distinguish it from other Anopheles species.

Emperor Dragonfly

One of the largest dragonflies in Europe. Powerful flier that patrols territories along waterways. Can fly at speeds up to 54 km/h and catch prey mid-flight with near-perfect accuracy.

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Did You Know?

Emperor dragonflies have a prey capture success rate of 95% — the highest of any predator on Earth. Lions succeed only 25% of the time.