Hawaiian Orangeblack Damselfly vs Common Agonum

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Hawaiian Orangeblack Damselfly Common Agonum
Scientific Name Megalagrion xanthomelas Agonum muelleri
Order Odonata Coleoptera
Family Coenagrionidae Carabidae
Size 32-38 mm 7-9 mm
Habitat Wetlands Farmland
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Oceania (Hawaii) Europe, western Asia
Conservation Endangered Least Concern

Hawaiian Orangeblack Damselfly

A strikingly coloured Hawaiian damselfly with orange and black markings. It was once widespread in lowland wetlands but has declined dramatically due to habitat loss and introduced predators. It breeds in anchialine pools and slow streams.

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Did You Know?

This damselfly breeds in anchialine pools - unique coastal ponds with underground connections to the ocean, found along Hawaiian lava shorelines.

Common Agonum

A sleek, metallic greenish-bronze ground beetle with a smooth, oval body. It is one of the most common ground beetles in European agricultural landscapes and an important aphid predator.

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Did You Know?

Studies have found this species can consume over 100 cereal aphids in a single night, making it one of the most valuable natural enemies in wheat fields.