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Ophiogomphus anomalus
Extra-striped Snaketail

Harvey, 1898
Gomphidae, Clubtail Family
"Most Wanted" Species
photo of Teneral male extra-striped snaketail
Teneral male extra-striped snaketail — Dan Jackson
Status-Global/State:
Global: G4 Wisconsin: S2S3 Endangered
Distinguishing Characteristics:
With a bright green thorax, the extra-striped snaketail has n-shaped thoracic markings. The length of the body varies from 1.5 to 1.7 inches. The face has narrow black cross-stripes and green eyes. The legs are black. The abdomen is mostly black with pale markings. Ophiogomphus species are very similar to each other in some aspects, careful inspection is needed to identify those snaketails.
Description of Habitat/Range:
The extra-striped snaketail is not common on either side of the eastern border between United States and Canada. Ranging from Wisconsin to Nova Scotia, this dragonfly seems to prefer medium to large rivers that are clear and fast-moving. It is only known from a few northern counties in Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Late May to late June in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Teneral male extra-striped snaketail
Teneral male extra-striped snaketail — Dan Jackson
photo of Teneral male extra-striped snaketail
Teneral male extra-striped snaketail — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of teneral male extra-striped snaketail thorax
Close-up of teneral male extra-striped snaketail thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of teneral male extra-striped snaketail cerci
Side (top image) and top view of teneral male extra-striped snaketail cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female extra-striped snaketail
Female extra-striped snaketail — Dennis Paulson
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