Did You Know?

Dragonflies are one of the oldest inhabitants of the earth dating back to over 250 million years?


The first to develop wings and fly in the air, the dragonflies first appeared during the Carboniferous era, about 250 million years ago along with the Mayflies (Ephemeroptera).

Belonging to the aquatic insect order they are collectively known as Odonata.. Our Indian Subcontinent is rich in these Fast and agile fliers with around 500 of the 5000 recognised species from around the world.

Dragonfly adults are often brightly colored and have a long slender abdomen with two pair of long, slender wings that show many net-like veins. These wings don’t fold and are held outstretched when at rest. Adults are usually found near water but are good fliers and may range several miles.

Known to devour the mosquito larvae, they are nature’s effective solution for keeping malaria in check.

These jeweled helicopters of the insect world are quite tolerant to human presence which is evident from the pictures that I have managed to click from such close quarters.

This one is a female Asian Amberwings (Brachythemis Contaminata) (Fabricius,1793)

Family : Libellulidae
Size : Length 24mm Wingspread 52mm





It was a rainy mid-day, supposedly the best time to try photographing a dragonfly.


Using the flash seems to have lit up the various shades of the dragonfly’s body.


If anybody can share further information on this beautiful God’s creation or correct me wherever I am wrong, please oblige by throwing some more light, over this way!


Comments

Nanka said…
Such a beautiful take on this dragonfly and enjoyed every detail you have captured, especially the veins in the wings.

Had never seen a copter's eyes, they look so sad!!

Didn't know that my balcony was so alive and buzzing.

You have done what only you could have done and it is the best!!
Nanka,
you are absolutely right. I think I shoudl make more trips to your balcony to come back with a treasure trove of great pictures!
I never imagined what I had found when I was randomly clicking the 'coppo'..hehehe
All that exercise was worthwhile!
Nalini Hebbar said…
My favourite insect!...though I was cruel to them as a kid.
Redgannet said…
Hi Vibhuti,
I think you must be right with the female Asian Amberwing.
It is a great picture, well done.
Redgannet
The wings are so delicate!! never seen them this close:-)
joshi daniel said…
nice pics and that's some new information for me ;)
Redgannet said…
Hi Vibhuti,
I think you must be right with the female Asian Amberwing.
It is a great picture, well done.
Redgannet
Nalini Hebbar said…
My favourite insect!...though I was cruel to them as a kid.

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