Aciagrion dondoense Dijkstra, 2007
Opal Slim

Synonyms:

• scientific: A. congoense sensu Pinhey, 1972 nec (Sjöstedt, 1917)

Type locality: Pemba Island, Ngezi Forest, Tanzania

Diagnosis

Male is similar to A. zambiense by (a) larger size, Hw 19-22 mm; (b) dorsum of head pale with some black traces; (c) thorax largely pale; (d) cerci distinctly longer than paraprocts, with broad or rounded apex; (e) basal tooth of paraprocts directed straight upwards. However, differs by (1) ranging from NE Tanzania to NE South Africa; (2) cerci about as long as S10, with squarish apex and rather small tooth-like ventral process placed close to base. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014]

Habitat description

Not known well, but probably standing and often temporary waters shaded by forest, but possibly also in more open landscapes. Probably often with emergent vegetation and coarse detritus. Recorded mostly near sea level, but possibly up to 400.

Distribution

Map citation: Clausnitzer, V., K.-D.B. Dijkstra, R. Koch, J.-P. Boudot, W.R.T. Darwall, J. Kipping, B. Samraoui, M.J. Samways, J.P. Simaika & F. Suhling, 2012. Focus on African Freshwaters: hotspots of dragonfly diversity and conservation concern. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 10: 129-134.

Reference

• Dijkstra, K.-D.B. (2007). The name-bearing types of Odonata held in the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, with systematic notes on Afrotropical taxa. Part 2: Zygoptera and descriptions of new species. International Journal of Odonatology, 10, 137-170. [PDF file]

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-10-09].