Red-veined darter (Sympetrum fonscolombii)
Red-veined darter or nomad (Sympetrum fonscolombii)
Red-veined Darter: Wandering Hunter in Red
The red-veined darter stands out with its vivid red coloring and two-toned eyes. Discover everything about its appearance, behavior, distribution, and unique traits.
Key Facts
- Size: 38–40 mm body length, wingspan 55–65 mm
- Weight: a few milligrams to about 0.1 g
- Diet: small insects; larvae hunt small aquatic animals
- Flight season: May–October, several generations per year possible
- Distribution: Southern Europe, Africa, Western Asia; as a migratory species also in Central Europe
- Species: Red-veined darter (Sympetrum fonscolombii)
- Order: Dragonflies (Odonata)
- Family: Skimmer dragonflies (Libellulidae)
- Habitat: still and slow-flowing waters, preferring warm regions
- Special features: two-colored pterostigma, two-toned eyes, rapid development
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Appearance
- Characteristics
- Diet
- Reproduction and Life Cycle
- Seasonal Behavior
- Distribution and Range
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Introduction
Sometimes a single glance at a pond is enough to spot it: the red-veined darter. Already in May, when other species are still absent, it can be seen darting over ponds and ditches. Most striking are the males, with their bright red abdomens and two-toned eyes. This species is among the most adaptable dragonflies, capable of producing several generations within a single year – a real advantage in warmer regions.
Appearance
The red-veined darter is a medium-sized dragonfly with an elegant shape.
- Males are recognized by their bright red body coloration, especially intense on the abdomen.
- Females are more subdued: their bodies are yellowish to brown, with black longitudinal stripes on the abdomen.
One key feature is the two-toned eyes: reddish to brown on top, bluish-green below.
The wings are also distinctive. They are delicate and transparent, with amber shading near the base. Typical is the two-colored pterostigma – pale in the center but bordered by dark veins. The body is slender, and the legs are black with yellow stripes.
Characteristics
- Body length: 38–40 mm
- Wingspan: 55–65 mm
- Weight: a few milligrams to about 0.1 g
- Pterostigma: two-colored (pale with dark outline)
- Eyes: reddish-brown above, bluish-green below
- Coloration: vivid red in males, yellowish-brown in females
This combination makes the red-veined darter unmistakable and easy to distinguish from other darter species.
Diet
The red-veined darter is an ambush hunter. It perches on grasses or twigs, waiting for prey. When an insect flies past, it launches swiftly and catches it midair.
Its diet consists of small insects: mosquitoes, flies, aphids, and sometimes small moths.
The larvae hunt underwater. They feed on insect larvae, small worms, and crustaceans, using their extendable “mask” – a lower jaw that shoots out like a harpoon.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Mating takes place in the typical heart-shaped wheel position of dragonflies. Afterwards, pairs often fly in tandem over the water’s surface. The female drops eggs directly into the water or onto floating plants.
A remarkable trait is the rapid development of the larvae. Within just a few months, they can complete their metamorphosis. This enables the species to produce multiple generations per year in warm regions.
Seasonal Behavior
The red-veined darter truly earns its name as an early flyer: it is often active earlier in the year than other darters, sometimes as early as May. Its flight season extends into October.
It typically has two peaks: an early generation in early summer and a later one in late summer to autumn. Thanks to its fast development, it adapts flexibly to the seasons.
Distribution and Range
The red-veined darter originates from Africa, Western Asia, and Southern Europe. However, as a migratory species, it is capable of traveling long distances.
In Central Europe, it appears regularly. During hot summers, populations expand significantly. In southern Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, it is now a familiar sight, while further north it appears only occasionally.
Its preferred habitats are still or slow-flowing waters with rich vegetation – especially in warm, open landscapes.
FAQ
How can I recognize the red-veined darter?
By its two-toned eyes, two-colored pterostigma, and the males’ vivid red body.
When does it fly?
From May to October, often with two generations per year.
Where does it occur?
Originally in Africa, Southern Europe, and Western Asia, but increasingly also in Central Europe.
What does the red-veined darter eat?
It hunts small insects like mosquitoes and flies. The larvae hunt small animals underwater.
Why is it called a migratory dragonfly?
Because it can travel long distances and establish itself in new areas.
Conclusion
The red-veined darter is a striking example of insect adaptability. With its bright colors, distinctive eyes, and ability to produce multiple generations per year, it stands out among dragonflies. Its migratory nature makes it a true cosmopolitan – and a fascinating species to observe by local waters.
