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Somatochlora minor
Ocellated Emerald

Calvert in Harvey, 1898
Corduliidae, Emerald Family
photo of Male ocellated emerald
Male ocellated emerald — Dan Jackson
The medium-sized, dark brown striped emeralds have some pale markings on the thorax and abdomen, black legs, clear wings and brilliant green eyes. The thorax has a metallic bronze-green sheen and the abdomen is dark metallic black-green. Most species are uncommonly seen, but this may be largely due to their secretive nature. When flying, most species look alike which is why in-hand identifications of their anatomical features are often needed.
Status-Global/State:
Global: G5 Wisconsin: S4
Distinguishing Characteristics:
A small dark emerald that is identified by round yellow spots on its thorax and a short abdomen. The face is black. Females may have wings tinted brown. Its abdomen seems to be wider in the middle when compared to other Somatochlora species. The body length varies from 1.7 to 1.9 inches.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Common throughout Canada and northern United States, it is usually found at clear, slow flowing streams in the forests. In Wisconsin, it is common except in the most southern counties.
Flight Season:
Mid-June to late July in Wisconsin. Throughout its range, the flight season is from early June to late September.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male ocellated emerald
Male ocellated emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Male ocellated emerald
Male ocellated emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature male ocellated emerald
Immature male ocellated emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male ocellated emerald thorax
Close-up of male ocellated emerald thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of male ocellated emerald cerci
Side (top image) and top view of male ocellated emerald cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female ocellated emerald
Female ocellated emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Female ocellated emerald
Female ocellated emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature female ocellated emerald
Immature female ocellated emerald — Jim Lind
photo of Close-up of female pcellated emerald abdomen tip
Close-up of female pcellated emerald abdomen tip — Dan Jackson
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