Stream Cruiser
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Didymops transversa
Say, 1839
Order Odonata
Suborder Anisoptera
Superfamily Libelluloidea
Family Macromiidae
Genus Didymops
Species transversa (Say, 1839) [Libellula]
Identification
This widely distributed species is distinctive among the cruiser species in the region. Its body is dull brown. The thorax is covered with whitish hairs and a single pale yellowish stripe laterally. The wings each have a small brown spot basally. The abdomen has pale spots on segments 1-8 and is s
lightly clubbed. The caudal appendages are yellowish.
Size
Total length: 56-60 mm; abdomen: 34-43 mm; hindwing: 34-48 mm.
Similar Species
Bronzed River Cruiser (Macromia annulata
) is dull, has yellow stripes on the front of the thorax and lacks wings spots. Fawn Darner (Boyeria vinosa
) has spots not stripes laterally on the thorax. The male abdomen is clubbed which may result in confusion with some clubtails, but the eyes are touching on top of the head.
Habitat
Medium to large streams and rivers.
Discussion
This is an early spring species that commonly perches obliquely on grasses and bushes. Younger individuals are often seen flying low, some distance from water, in open fields and along paths. Returning males patrol for long distances along the shore line. Females may lay eggs over a long distance by tapping their abdomens to the water surface intermittently or choose to confine their egg laying to a smaller area.
Distribution
Eastern U.S. and Canada.
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