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

Enallagma traviatum westfalli
Slender Bluet

Selys, 1876
Coenagrionidae, Pond Damsel Family
"Most Wanted" Species
photo of Male slender bluet
Male slender 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: S1S3
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The male of this slender species is a black-type bluet because of its predominantly black abdomen. The slender bluet varies from 1.1 to 1.3 inches. The male's head is mostly pale blue. The pale blue thorax has broad black mid-dorsal stripe and thin black shoulder stripes. The abdomen is mostly black above with a blue tip and black appendages. The female has a similar thorax but pale colors pale blue or tan. Her abdomen has a pale blue tip.
Description of Habitat/Range:
In eastern United States, this species likes permanent ponds and lakes with abundant emergent and aquatic vegetation. In Wisconsin, it is known from just a few central counties.
Flight Season:
Throughout its range, the flight season is from late June to mid-August.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male slender bluet
Male slender bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Male slender bluet
Male slender bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male slender bluet thorax
Close-up of male slender bluet thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Top view of male slender bluet thorax
Top view of male slender bluet thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Male slender bluet abdomen tip
Male slender bluet abdomen tip — Dan Jackson
photo of Female slender bluet
Female slender bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Female slender bluet
Female slender bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Teneral female slender bluet
Teneral female slender bluet — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of female slender bluet thorax
Close-up of female slender bluet thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Ovipositing slender bluet pair
Ovipositing slender bluet pair — Dan Jackson
photo of Slender bluet pair
Slender bluet pair — Dan Jackson
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