As a follow up to my post last week, I would like to share some interesting dragonfly specimens that I have come across in the Beatty Collection.
The name of this one caught my eye:
Phenes raptor is a member of the family Petaluridae. This is the most primitive family of Odonates. There have been specimens from the Jurassic period that have been identified as Petalurids. This family also contains the largest species of dragonfly in the world, the Australian species Petalura ingentissima. Unfortunately, I have not found any of these in the collection, yet.
And then there’s this lil’ beauty:
The common name of this species is Variegated Flutterer. They’re called “flutterers” because they are weaker fliers than most other dragonflies. Their unusual flight pattern often leads to them being misidentified as butterflies, at a glance. They’re widespread from India to Japan.
Another beautiful species that is common in Asia:
The live members of this species are black with vibrant yellow stripes and baby blue eyes. Simply gorgeous. Unfortunately, most of the coloration is lost upon placing the specimen in Acetone (this is the best method for preserving the specimen, however, so it is the most commonly used curation method).
Filigree Skimmer (Pseudoleon superbus):
I am particularly excited about this species because, like I. rapax, it is much more beautiful when it is alive (just look at these eyes!), and it just so happens to be a Southwestern species. I have big plans to go on an Ode collecting expedition when I get back to Arizona, and these guys are at the top of my list.
And then just for the sheer cuteness: