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Crocothemis erythraea

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description Crocothemis erythraea Overview

Crocothemis erythraea, commonly known as the broad scarlet, is a dragonfly in the family Libellulidae found across Africa, southern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. The mature male is uniformly bright red across the body and eyes, while females and immature males are yellowish-brown in coloration. The species was described in 1832 and inhabits still and slow-moving waters including ponds, lakes, and marshes. Its range has expanded northward within Europe in recent decades.

help Crocothemis erythraea FAQ

What is the geographic range of the broad scarlet dragonfly?

The broad scarlet dragonfly, scientifically known as *Crocothemis erythraea*, is widely distributed across Africa, southern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. It thrives in warm climates and is commonly found near still or slow-moving freshwater bodies like ponds and lakes.

What does a mature male Crocothemis erythraea look like?

Mature males of the species are instantly recognizable by their striking, uniformly bright red bodies and eyes. Conversely, females and immature males display a yellowish-brown coloration rather than the vivid scarlet hue.

What family does the broad scarlet dragonfly belong to?

*Crocothemis erythraea* is part of the Libellulidae family, which is the largest family of dragonflies in the world. This diverse family encompasses a wide variety of species commonly known as skimmers or perchers.

How does the broad scarlet dragonfly differ from other red dragonfly species?

Unlike some other red dragonfly species that feature dark markings or stripes, the mature male broad scarlet has a completely uniform bright red abdomen and thorax. This lack of markings, along with its flat-feeding posture, makes it highly distinctive in its natural European and African habitats.

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