Dropwings

Family Libellulidae Leach, 1815

• Genus Trithemis    Brauer, 1868

Worldwide Distribution

• More than 40 species mainly in Africa. 2 Species endemic to Madagascar 5 Species endemic to Asia
• Eleven species are present in the southern African Region

Habitat

• Found at all kinds of freshwater habitats

Africa:

• Over 40 species in Africa
• Two more endemic to Madagascar
• Five more endemic to Asia

General information:

• The name Dropwing as used for this genus is due to the way it perches with wings held downwards and forwards when at rest.. Note: This way of perching  may be seen in other species of Dragonflies that is not in the Dropwing genus
• Small (30 mm) to medium sized (53 mm) (hindwing 21-35 mm) sized  Click HERE  for size diagram
• Male colour typically bright. Female typically cryptic colours and well-marked
• Dropwing species can be grouped loosely based on colour, habitat, and genitalia
• Colours within the genus
  • Predominantly red (russet or brownish) with maturity, appearing violet if pruinose, with striking orange or yellow wing patches often with wing markings or coloured veins
  • Largely dark, often (partly) blue or black pruinose with maturity, light blue or a mid-blue usually with reduced wings markings.
  • Colours change markedly with maturation. Red, violet or pruinose parts may be yellowish, brown or black in young or preserved specimens

Synopsis

• By scientific name in alphabetic order
• Only males are shown
• Males and females differ in colour .For this guide we will show only mature males (where possible)

 Grouping of the south African species by colour

Red, Violet or Brown Group: