Elfs
Family Libellulidae (Leach, 1815)
Distribution Worldwide
- From tropical Africa, across southern Asia to Australia,
Africa
- 8 species in tropical Africa
- Distinct and may still be reclassified as the genus Neophlebia
General identification features
- Seven species are nearly identical, small (hindwing 20-25 mm) and black marked with yellow or green, preferring rainforest pools and swamps, differing mainly in their appendages.
- T.. polleni, however, is larger (hindwing 22-30 mm) and mature males have entirely grey pruinose bodies and largely dark wings.
Habitat and behaviour
- T. polleni, shady pools in savanna, woodland and forest edge, like muddy watering holes and puddles in drying streambeds.
- The other 7 species prefer rain forest pools and swamps.
- Males of all species perch conspicuously at suitable pools, flying into the trees when disturbed.
- Females lay their eggs while settled on plants or sticks (or similar substrates) above the water surface. Often perch occupied by the mating male
A selection of images:
