 |
| Dragonfly |
A dragonfly is an insect belonging to the order Odonata,
infraorder Anisoptera (from Greek ἄνισος anisos, "unequal" and πτερόν
pteron, "wing", because the hindwing is broader than the forewing).
Adult dragonflies are characterized by large, multifaceted eyes, two pairs of
strong, transparent wings, sometimes with coloured patches, and an elongated
body. Dragonflies can be mistaken for the related group, damselflies
(Zygoptera), which are similar in structure, though usually lighter in build;
however, the wings of most dragonflies are held flat and away from the body,
while damselflies hold the wings folded at rest, along or above the abdomen.
 |
| Dragonfly |
Dragonflies are agile fliers, while damsel flies have a
weaker, fluttery flight. Many Dragonflies have brilliant iridescent or metallic
colours produced by structural coloration, making them conspicuous in flight.
An adult dragonfly's compound eyes have nearly 24,000 ommatidia each.
 |
| Dragonfly |
 |
| Dragonfly |
 |
| Dragonfly |
Fossils of very large dragonfly ancestors in the Protodonata
are found from 325 million years ago (Mya) in Upper Carboniferous rocks; these
had wingspans up to about 750 mm (30 in). There are about 3,000 extant species.
Most are tropical, with fewer species in temperate regions. Loss of wetland
habitat threatens dragonfly populations around the world.
 |
| Dragonfly |
Leave a Comment