Weta Punga (Tusked Weta) vs Keeled Skimmer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Weta Punga (Tusked Weta) | Keeled Skimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anostostoma australasia | Orthetrum coerulescens |
| Order | Orthoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 40-55 mm | 36-45mm |
| Habitat | Indoors | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - North Island) | Europe, Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Weta Punga (Tusked Weta)
A distinctive king cricket or tusked weta found in the North Island of New Zealand. Males possess curved tusks projecting from the mandibles, used in combat with other males. It is a ground-dwelling, nocturnal predator.
Did You Know?
Male tusked weta use their curved mandibular tusks in wrestling matches for mating rights, locking jaws like miniature stag beetles.
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.