Common skimmer
The male's blue compound eyes are beautiful.
| Scientific name | Orthetrum albistylum speciosum |
| English name | Common skimmer |
| Japanese name | 塩辛蜻蛉 |
| Classification | Insecta |
| Classification details | Odonata Libellulidae |
| Full length | 50-55mm. |
| Distribution | Distributed throughout Japan. Distributed in the northeastern part of the Eurasian continent. |
Characteristics
This is the most common dragonfly in Japan.
It is named after the salt-white surface of the body of the mature male.
The male is light blue all over, while the female is yellowish. The abdomen tapers off sharply from the third segment, and the black tip is long. This distinguishes it from similar species.
The compound eyes are also brightly colored, with mature males blue and females green. The wings are transparent and have a black border.
Ecology
It is often found in flatland rice fields and rivers and other waterside areas. The nymphs are carnivorous, eating small insects and aquatic creatures. Adults appear from spring to autumn.
Habitat
Tama River riverbed
I photographed a male and female at the Tama River in midsummer. A splendid male was perched on the concrete. The color of the compound eyes was vivid and beautiful. The female is not light blue like the male and at first glance looks like a different species, but it has the characteristics of a Shiokara Tonbo, such as a slender abdomen. I think the color of the female's compound eyes is also beautiful.
Pictures
Introducing a picture of Common skimmer.
