Mascarene Spreadwing vs Black-winged Damselfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mascarene Spreadwing | Black-winged Damselfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lestes auripennis | Calopteryx atrata |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Lestidae | Calopterygidae |
| Size | 3.5-4.5 cm | 55-68mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Mauritius, Reunion | Asia |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Mascarene Spreadwing
A rare damselfly endemic to Mauritius and Reunion in the Mascarene Islands. It breeds in slow-flowing streams with overhanging vegetation.
Did You Know?
Most of Mauritius's original wetland habitat has been converted to sugar cane fields.
Black-winged Damselfly
A large damselfly where males have entirely black iridescent wings with a metallic blue-green body. Females have dark smoky-brown wings. It inhabits clean streams in East Asia.
Did You Know?
In Japan it is called 'haguro-tonbo' (black-winged dragonfly) and is considered a symbol of good fortune.