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Cordulia shurtleffii
American Emerald

Scudder, 1866
Corduliidae, Emerald Family
photo of Male American emerald
Male American emerald — Dan Jackson
Status-Global/State:
Global: G5 Wisconsin: S5
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The American emerald is compact and similar to the Dorocordulia and Somatochlora species, differing primarily in wing venation. The American emerald is generally metallic green with brown hairs and clear wings. The abdomen is green-black and thinly haired. There is only one species in this genus in North America. Similar to Somatochlora species, the American emerald has bright green eyes and clear wings. The thorax is black with brown hairs. The length of the body varies from 1.7 to 2.0 inches.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Common throughout Wisconsin, especially the northern half, its range includes the northern United States and Canada. It is usually found at sphagnum bog ponds, small lakes, marshes, bogs, and fens.
Flight Season:
Mid-May to mid-July in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male American emerald
Male American emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Transitional male American emerald
Transitional male American emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Transitional male American emerald
Transitional male American emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature male American emerald
Immature male American emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of male American emerald cerci
Side (top image) and top view of male American emerald cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female American emerald
Female American emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Female American emerald
Female American emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature female American emerald
Immature female American emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature female American emerald
Immature female American emerald — Dan Jackson
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