Bug Identifier
Blue-tailed Damselfly
Community identification

Blue-tailed Damselfly

Ischnura elegans

Order & Family
Order: Odonata; Family: Coenagrionidae
Size
29 to 35 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Near slow-moving or standing water such as ponds, lakes, ditches, and canals. Commonly found among reeds and riverside vegetation.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous. Adults hunt small flying insects like midges and mosquitoes while in flight; larvae (nymphs) eat small aquatic invertebrates.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal. Known for holding their wings closed over their abdomen when at rest. They exhibit complex mating rituals and are often found in high densities.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial to the ecosystem as a natural pest control, preying on mosquitoes and other small flies. They are harmless to humans.