Orthetrum kafwi Dijkstra, 2015
Bog Skimmer

Type locality: Upemba NP, Kabwekanono, DRC

Diagnosis

Male recalls the widespread and syntopic O. hintzi by (a) small size, Hw 23.7-26.0 mm (n = 6); (b) the absence of cell-doublings in the radial planate and thus a single row of cells there; (c) the pale subcostal Ax; (d) the large pale Pt that are about 13-14 % of Hw length, 3.2-3.5 mm; and (e) the narrow space between the triangular and out-turned hook and prominent lobe of the hamule. When not pruinose also similar by (f) the absence of a black line on the metepimeral carina; (g) the dorsa of S4-10 yellow with black lateral halves; and (h) the cerci always dark. However, (1) the frons anterior to the vertex, as well as the labium, is always pale and never marked with black; and (2) the hamule has a straight rather than convex anterior border, ending in a slender hook that is distinctly longer rather than shorter than it is wide at the point where it turns outward when seen in ventral view. Also, when not yet pruinose (3) the dorsal carina of S3-9 is always marked with a thin black line. [Adapted from Dijkstra, Kipping & Mézière 2015]

Habitat description

Standing waters in open landscapes. Usually boggy and often with emergent vegetation and a soft (like muddy) bottom. From 1700 to 1900 m above sea level.

Distribution

Secondary genitalia (lateral view)

Map citation: Clausnitzer, V., K.-D.B. Dijkstra, R. Koch, J.-P. Boudot, W.R.T. Darwall, J. Kipping, B. Samraoui, M.J. Samways, J.P. Simaika & F. Suhling, 2012. Focus on African Freshwaters: hotspots of dragonfly diversity and conservation concern. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 10: 129-134.

Barcode specimen(s):

Reference

• Dijkstra, K.-D.B., Mézière, N., and Kipping, J. (2015). Sixty new dragonfly and damselfly species from Africa (Odonata). Odonatologica, 44, 447-678.

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-11-15].