Common hooktail

Introduction: Common Hooktails (Paragomphus genei) inhabit fresh waters such as larger perennial rivers to smaller streams, temporary waters and lakes.

Distribution: Widespread and common in the drier western regions of the country. Observed in the Caprivi Strip, Epupa Falls, with scattered populations in Kaokoland and Damaraland, Windhoek and south to the Fish River.

Colouration: Dull green thorax with pale brownish markings.

Breeding: Larvae are burrowers or 'sand swimmers' with the ability to cover themselves in no time with sand. Larvae development is rapid which can be completed in under 60 days and 2 or more generations can be produced each year.

Flight season: Throughout the year.

Max size: 50mm.

Conservation: Not threatened.