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Stylurus olivaceus

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description Stylurus olivaceus Overview

Stylurus olivaceus, commonly known as the olive clubtail, is a species of dragonfly in the family Gomphidae. It is native to western North America and was first scientifically described in 1873. The species is typically found inhabiting warm rivers and large streams, often in arid or semi-arid regions. The aquatic larvae develop in these riverine environments before emerging as adult flying insects.

help Stylurus olivaceus FAQ

Where does the Stylurus olivaceus dragonfly live?

Stylurus olivaceus is a clubtail dragonfly native to western North America. It is highly specialized and almost exclusively inhabits the warm rivers and streams found in arid, desert landscapes.

When was the Stylurus olivaceus species first described?

This specific species of clubtail dragonfly was officially described in 1873. It was cataloged during a period of intense Western expansion when entomologists were rapidly documenting the natural history of the American frontier.

What does the Olive Clubtail dragonfly look like?

True to its scientific name 'olivaceus,' the dragonfly features an olive-green coloration that camouflages perfectly against the riverside vegetation. Like other members of the Stylurus genus, the male possesses a distinctively widened 'club' at the end of its abdomen.

Why is Stylurus olivaceus difficult for researchers to observe?

Because it evolved in arid landscapes, this dragonfly spends much of its adult life resting high up in the tree canopy to escape the heat. They usually only come down to the water's surface to mate and lay eggs, making them notoriously hard to spot.

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