Glistening demoiselle

  Introduction: A feature of the Glistening Demoiselle (Phaon iridipennis) is the conspicuous territorial behaviour amongst males. The Greek word irid means 'rainbow' and penna the Latin for 'feather/wing' a reference to the glimmering forewings in flight.

Distribution: Kunene, Okavango and Zambezi Rivers.

Colouration: Metallic, copper-green sheen to the body, mauve shiny forewings and translucent amber hindwings.

Breeding: Oviposition is in plants. Larvae then live in the submerged vegetation in fast flowing water.

Flight season: Throughout the year, with the highest numbers in December.

Max size: 75mm.

Conservation: Not threatened but habitat dependent and human activities such as riverine forest decimation caused population decline.