zoom_in Click to enlarge

Gomphurus vastus

▲ ▼

description Gomphurus vastus Overview

Gomphurus vastus, commonly referred to as the Cobra Clubtail, is a species of dragonfly in the family Gomphidae, first described by entomologist Benjamin Walsh in 1862. It is indigenous to North America, where it is typically found breeding in clear, fast-moving, broad rivers and large streams. The species is characterized by its large size, yellow and black striped markings, and the distinctly widened abdominal segments that give clubtail dragonflies their name. Larvae develop in the water before emerging as adults.

help Gomphurus vastus FAQ

Where can I find Gomphurus vastus in North America?

Gomphurus vastus inhabits broad rivers and large streams across eastern North America. It is most commonly found along medium-to-large river systems with clean, flowing water rather than small creeks or still ponds.

Who first described Gomphurus vastus scientifically?

Gomphurus vastus was described by the American entomologist Benjamin Dann Walsh in 1862. Walsh was a pioneering figure in North American entomology based in Illinois who published extensively on insects of the American Midwest.

What does Gomphurus vastus look like?

Gomphurus vastus is a large clubtail dragonfly with a characteristically expanded abdomen tip and black-and-yellow striped coloration. Like all members of the family Gomphidae, it has widely separated eyes, distinguishing it from most other dragonfly families.

When is the best time of year to observe Gomphurus vastus?

Gomphurus vastus is most commonly observed during the summer months, typically from June through August, when adults patrol broad rivers and streams. Early morning is often the best time to find clubtails perched on rocks or bare banks near water.

swap_horiz

Looking for Gomphurus vastus alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward