Selika Dropwing vs Sharp-Grooved Diving Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Selika Dropwing Sharp-Grooved Diving Beetle
Scientific Name Trithemis selika Acilius sulcatus
Order Odonata Coleoptera
Family Libellulidae Dytiscidae
Size 35-45 mm 15-18 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Herbivores Predators
Regions Madagascar Europe, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Selika Dropwing

A robust dragonfly with crimson to dark red coloration in mature males and brown in females. It perches conspicuously on waterside vegetation with wings held forward.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the most commonly seen dragonflies in Madagascar, even found in urban parks and garden ponds in Antananarivo.

Sharp-Grooved Diving Beetle

A medium-sized diving beetle widespread across Europe, recognized by the deeply grooved elytra of females. It is a fast and agile predator in ponds.

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Did You Know?

Females have deeply furrowed elytra that prevent males from gripping them, giving them control over mating.