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Ozark Emerald

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description Ozark Emerald Overview

The Ozark Emerald is a dragonfly of the emerald family Corduliidae and is associated with the Ozark region of the central United States. It is treated as a range-restricted species found in and around suitable small streams and spring-fed habitats, rather than a broadly distributed pond dragonfly. Its limited range makes it relevant to regional biodiversity surveys, habitat monitoring, and identification work focused on North American Somatochlora species.

help Ozark Emerald FAQ

What is the scientific name of the Ozark emerald dragonfly?

The Ozark emerald is usually identified as Somatochlora ozarkensis in the family Corduliidae. The species was described by Bird in 1933, so the frequently repeated 1990 discovery date should not be treated as its formal scientific description date.

Which states are in the Ozark emerald's range?

NatureServe lists Somatochlora ozarkensis from Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. It is endemic to the United States and is associated with the Ozark and nearby Interior Highlands region.

What habitat does the Ozark emerald need?

It is associated with small, rocky, shallow streams with clear water in deciduous or mixed woodlands. Documented stream habitats are often only about 5 to 8 meters wide and may contain exposed bedrock, sand, or fine gravel.

Why is the Ozark emerald difficult to find?

Its range is restricted and its breeding habitat consists of scattered stream systems rather than broad lakes or wetlands. Adults also hunt airborne insects, while the larvae develop in freshwater, so both the stream and surrounding woodland matter.

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