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Somatochlora incurvata
Incurvate Emerald

Walker, 1918
Corduliidae, Emerald Family
"Most Wanted" Species
photo of Male incurvate emerald
Male incurvate 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: G4 Wisconsin: S2S3 Endangered
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The incurvate emerald is similar to the forcipate emerald and Kennedy's emerald but larger and more elongated. The body varies from 1.9 to 2.3 inches in the length. The thorax has blurred pale markings. The abdomen has dull yellow spots on most segments. The juvenile females may have orange wingtips.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Ranging throughout northeastern United States and southeastern Canada, this species prefer bog pools and open wet sedge meadows. Little is known about its life history. In Wisconsin, it is known from scattered open sedge meadow bogs and fens throughout the state.
Flight Season:
In Wisconsin, adults have been documented from mid-June to mid-September. The flight season, throughout its range, is from mid-June to early October.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male incurvate emerald
Male incurvate emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Male incurvate emerald
Male incurvate emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male incurvate emerald thorax
Close-up of male incurvate emerald thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of male incurvate emerald cerci
Side (top image) and top view of male incurvate emerald cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female incurvate emerald
Female incurvate emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of female incurvate emerald thorax
Close-up of female incurvate emerald thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side view of female incurvate emerald abdomen tip
Side view of female incurvate emerald abdomen tip — Dan Jackson
photo of Incurvate emerald pair
Incurvate emerald pair — Dan Jackson
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