Diplacodes pumila Dijkstra, 2006
Dwarf Percher

Synonyms:

• scientific: D. deminuta sensu Pinhey, 1976 nec Lieftinck, 1969

Type locality: Ndoba, Zambia

Diagnosis

Male is similar to D. deminuta by (a) small size, Hw 15-19 mm; (b) becoming largely black with maturity, sometimes partly with pale grey pruinosity; (c) patch at Hw base at most deep amber; (d) Pt only about 2 mm. However, differs by (1) relatively longer hook of hamule; (2) tip of epiproct usually closer to ventral angle than tip of cerci. Also, when body is not yet entirely black (3) mesepisternum rufous, contrasting with sides of thorax; (4) S8 with pale streak more than half as long as segment, S9 with pale spot or streak, S10 may have pale spot. When body is all black (5) face all black too, rather than laterally or frontally yellow; (6) Pt brown, rather than whitish; (7) epiproct and underside of cerci largely dark, rather than only the tips of both being dark. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014]

Habitat description

Standing and probably often temporary waters in open landscapes. Usually boggy and with emergent vegetation. From 1000 to 2100 m above sea level, but possibly down to sea level.

Distribution

Appendages (lateral view)

Abdominal segment 2 (o)

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.

Barcode specimen(s):

Reference

• Dijkstra, K.-D.B. (2006). African Diplacodes: the status of the small species and the genus Philonomon (Odonata: Libellulidae). International Journal of Odonatology, 9, 119-132. [PDF file]

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