Mesocnemis saralisa Dijkstra, 2008
Congo Riverjack

Type locality: Lokutu, DRC

Diagnosis

Male is similar to M. singularis by (a) size, Hw 22-27 mm (b) 16-21 Px in Fw (c) base of cerci bears two long finger- and thumb-like processes directed inwards, visible in dorsal view (d) paraprocts more quadrangular. However, differs by (1) less widespread and being restricted to DRC; (2) Proximal cercal process is roughly triangular and directed inwards, while well-separated distal process is thumb-like, directed in- and downwards, and visible in lateral view; (3) paraprocts rather triangular rather than quadrangular, with quite smooth, rather than strongly angled outer border. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014; this diagnosis not yet verified by author]

Habitat description

Rivers in open areas in forest. Often with emergent vegetation and/or submerged roots and probably overhanging branches. Recorded at around 300 and 900 m above sea level.

Distribution

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. (2008). The systematist's muse -- two new damselfly species from 'Elisabetha' in the Congo Basin ( Odonata: Chlorocyphidae, Platycnemididae). Zoologische Mededelingen, 82, 5-27. [PDF file]

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-10-30].