Congo Basin Dragonfly vs Flame Skimmer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Congo Basin Dragonfly | Flame Skimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Palpopleura lucia | Libellula saturata |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 25-35 mm body length | 65-72 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | West and Central Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, DRC, Senegal, Ivory Coast) | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Congo Basin Dragonfly
A small but strikingly colored dragonfly with a broad, flattened abdomen. Males are bright blue with black wing markings while females are yellow and brown. It is one of the most abundant dragonflies in West African wetlands.
Did You Know?
Males are highly territorial and will chase away any other dragonfly that enters their small waterside territory.
Flame Skimmer
A brilliantly red-orange dragonfly found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Males are unmistakable with their entirely flame-colored body and wings.
Did You Know?
Flame skimmers are frequently attracted to swimming pools and hot tubs, which they mistake for warm natural springs ideal for breeding.