Wisconsin Odonata Survey title graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic

Enallagma carunculatum
Tule Bluet

Morse, 1895
Coenagrionidae, Pond Damsel Family
photo of Male tule bluet
Male tule bluet — Dan Jackson
The bluets form a group of about 17 similar species in Wisconsin in which the males usually share the characteristics of having blue and black stripes on the thorax, and blue and black markings on the abdomen. In-hand examinations are usually needed to identify them, although they can be grouped into subcategories based on the amount of black showing on the abdomen. Males are easily identified, under magnification, by the shape of their terminal appendages. Females are generally duller than males, and they are more difficult to identify, which is accomplished by subtle differences in the shape of the mesostigmal plates on the top of the thorax. Generally, males are bright blue while the females are green or yellow-green or blue. There are some species that are yellow-orange, a mix of various colors, or black with some blue.
Status-Global/State:
Global: G5 Wisconsin: S5
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The male of this species is an intermediate-type bluet because of roughly equal amounts of blue and black on the abdomen. It is similar to the familiar bluet in the field. The body length varies from 1.0 to 1.5 inches.
Description of Habitat/Range:
The tule bluet is found throughout from southern Canada to Mexico. It is very common in Wisconsin. It is usually found at rivers, lakes, and occasionally ponds.
Flight Season:
Typical flight season is from late May to mid-September in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male tule bluet
Male tule bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Male tule bluet
Male tule bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Male tule bluet
Male tule bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature male tule bluet
Immature male tule bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male tule bluet thorax
Close-up of male tule bluet thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side view of male tule bluet cerci
Side view of male tule bluet cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female tule bluet
Female tule bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Olive-form female tule bluet
Olive-form female tule bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature female tule bluet
Immature female tule bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Tule bluet pair
Tule bluet pair — Dan Jackson
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