Genus Boyeria McLachlan, 1896
spectres

Type species: Aeschna irene Fonscolombe, 1838

Introduction

For an introduction to this genus, please refer to: Dijkstra, K.-D.B. & R. Lewington, 2006. Field guide to the Dragonflies of Britain and Europe. British Wildlife Publishing. 1-320.

Diagnosis

Fields before Mspl and Rspl with two rows of cells, median space (between arculus and base) of all wings with 2-4 cross-veins, and vein IR3 not forked. pterostigma moderately long, with 4-7 subtending cells. Most males and some females have dark-tipped wings, especially the hindwing. Coloration rather dull and blotchy, like military camouflage. In the field, habitat, behaviour and colour is important, and, in the hand, venation rules out any confusion. Most Aeshna species are more strongly marked, lack median cross-veins and Mspl and Rspl subtend three or more irregular rows. Both these genera have IR3 forked and clear wing-tips. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Lewington 2006]

Map citation: Clausnitzer, V., K.-D.B. Dijkstra, R. Koch, J.-P. Boudot, W.R.T. Darwall, J. Kipping, B. Samraoui, M.J. Samways, J.P. Simaika & F. Suhling, 2012. Focus on African Freshwaters: hotspots of dragonfly diversity and conservation concern. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 10: 129-134.

Reference

• Dijkstra, K.-D.B., and Lewington, R. (2006). Field guide to the Dragonflies of Britain and Europe. British Wildlife Publishing, 1-320.

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-11-15].