Agriocnemis ruberrima Balinsky, 1961
Orange Wisp

Type locality: Richard's Bay, Natal, South Africa

Diagnosis

Male is similar to A. falcifera and A. pinheyi by (a) hindlobe of prothorax incised at two sides, separating fan-like middle section; (b) cerci with sharp triangular ventral process directed somewhat into S10; (c) paraprocts almost as long as cerci, tapering to pointed apex (lateral view). However, differs by (1) ranging from N Botswana to Zambia, NE South Africa; (2) apex S10 distinctly raised; (3) paraprocts ending narrowly rather than broadly, black terminal tooth in caudal view about as high as wide. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014]

Habitat description

Standing and often temporary waters, as well as rivers and flowing channels in marshes, in open landscapes. Usually with emergent and often aquatic vegetation. From 900 to 1400 m above sea level, but down to sea level in South Africa.

Distribution

confirmed: Botswana; Namibia; Republic of South Africa; Zambia


© Jens Kipping


Appendages (lateral view)

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.


References

  • Balinsky, B. I. (1961). Observations on the dragonfly fauna of the coastal region of Zululand, with descriptions of three new species (Odonata). Journal Entomological Society Southern Africa, 24, 72-91. [PDF file]
  • Pinhey, E.C.G. (1974). A revision of the African Agriocnemis Selys and Mortonagrion Fraser (Odonata Coenagrionidae). Occasional Papers National Museums Rhodesia B Natural Science, 5, 171-278. [PDF file]
  • Balinsky, B.I. (1963). A contribution towards the systematics of dragonflies of southern Africa (Odonata). Journal Entomological Society Southern Africa, 26, 228-255. [PDF file]

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-03-28].