Paragomphus cataractae Pinhey, 1963
Cataract Hooktail

Type locality: Vict[oria]. Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Diagnosis

Male is similar to P. sinaiticus by (a) being widespread; (b) size, Hw 22-26 mm; (c) labrum pale, at most vaguely darkened at base; (d) Pt brown, not contrasting with black veins; (e) apice S8-9 with broad foliations s of cerci parallel or apposed (dorsal view); (f) cerci slender, at least 1.5x as long as S10; (g) epiproct longer, almost as long as S10 or longer, not so strongly curved upwards; (h) cerci without distinct ventral ridge; epiproct about 1/3 as long as cerci. However, differs by (1) thorax uniformly bright green rather than yellow to green, and at most with indiscernible brownish markings on mesepisternum; (2) apical half of cerci very long and thin, with truncate apex bearing long tooth. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014; this diagnosis not yet verified by author]

Habitat description

Rivers in open landscapes. Especially faster sections (rapids, falls), often with rocks and a sandy bottom. Inferred to occur from 600 to 1000 m above sea level.

Distribution

Appendages (dorsal view)

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.

Reference

• Pinhey, E.C.G. (1963). Some anomalous types of African Odonata and the description of a new species. Journal Entomological Society Southern Africa, 26, 146-160. [PDF file]

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