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

Coenagrion interrogatum
Subarctic Bluet

(Hagen in Selys, 1876)
Coenagrionidae, Pond Damsel Family
"Most Wanted" Species
photo of Male subarctic bluet
Male subarctic bluet — Dan Jackson
Status-Global/State:
Global: G5 Wisconsin: S1S3
Distinguishing Characteristics:
Both genders of the subarctic bluet are readily identified by the wide blue shoulder stripes that are usually divided, forming a blue rectangle and square. There are additional distinctive black markings on the side and underneath of the thorax and on the 2nd abdominal segment. The body length of the subarctic bluet varies from 1.1 to 1.3 inches for both genders. The male is pale blue with black markings. The male is similar to the taiga bluet but with more black markings. The thorax has black stripes and the abdomen has black rings with a blue tip. Sometimes, the abdomen is greenish in the middle. The female is duller than the male. The female differs from the taiga bluet female by having tan streaks on the sides of the abdomen.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Found in northern US and Canada, this species prefers open fens, bogs, and marshes especially those with sphagnum moss. In Wisconsin, where we are at the southern limit of its range, it is known from just a few scattered sites.
Flight Season:
Throughout its range, the flight season is from early June to mid-August.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male subarctic bluet
Male subarctic bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Male subarctic bluet
Male subarctic bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Side view of male subarctic bluet cerci
Side view of male subarctic bluet cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female subarctic bluet
Female subarctic bluet — Mike Reese
photo of Close-up of female subarctic bluet face
Close-up of female subarctic bluet face — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of female subarctic bluet thorax
Close-up of female subarctic bluet thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Subarctic bluet pair
Subarctic bluet pair — Dan Jackson
This site is produced in conjunction with the Wisconsin Aquatic and Terrestrial Resources Inventory and sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The information presented on this site is subject to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' Legal Notices, Disclaimers, and Terms of Use.