Keeled Skimmer vs Purple Dun
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Keeled Skimmer | Purple Dun |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Orthetrum coerulescens | Paraleptophlebia adoptiva |
| Order | Odonata | Ephemeroptera |
| Family | Libellulidae | Leptophlebiidae |
| Size | 36-45mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Africa | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Keeled Skimmer
A slender dragonfly where mature males develop a powder-blue abdomen. Females and immature males are yellowish-brown. It flies low over shallow boggy streams and seepages.
Did You Know?
It is an indicator species for high-quality wet heathland, and its presence suggests good habitat condition.
Purple Dun
A small dark mayfly with purplish-gray wings found in eastern streams. Nymphs crawl among submerged leaf packs in moderate current.
Did You Know?
Females drop their egg masses onto the water surface from a height of several feet while in flight.