Glistening demoiselle
Introduction: A feature of the Glistening Demoiselle (Phaon iridipennis) is the conspicuous territorial behaviour amongst males. The Greek word irid means 'rainbow' and penna the Latin for 'feather/wing' a reference to the glimmering forewings in flight.
Distribution: Kunene, Okavango and Zambezi Rivers.
Colouration: Metallic, copper-green sheen to the body, mauve shiny forewings and translucent amber hindwings.
Breeding: Oviposition is in plants. Larvae then live in the submerged vegetation in fast flowing water.
Flight season: Throughout the year, with the highest numbers in December.
Max size: 75mm.
Conservation: Not threatened but habitat dependent and human activities such as riverine forest decimation caused population decline.
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