Downy Emerald vs Small Goldenring

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Downy Emerald Small Goldenring
Scientific Name Cordulia aenea Cordulegaster trinacriae
Order Odonata Odonata
Family Corduliidae Cordulegastridae
Size 47-53mm 65-74 mm
Habitat Woodlands Rivers & Streams
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia Europe
Conservation Least Concern Near Threatened

Downy Emerald

A metallic green dragonfly with a distinctive downy thorax covered in fine golden hairs. Males patrol tirelessly along woodland lake edges. Its bright green eyes are a key identification feature.

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Did You Know?

Males patrol relentlessly along a fixed beat at the water's edge, often for hours without stopping.

Small Goldenring

A Mediterranean goldenring dragonfly found in Italy and nearby regions. It is smaller than most goldenrings and inhabits warm lowland streams.

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Did You Know?

Its name refers to Sicily (Trinacria), where it was first scientifically described.