Genus Stenocypha Dijkstra, 2013
slender jewels

Synonyms:

• scientific: formerly placed in genus Chlorocypha

Type species: Libellago gracilis Karsch, 1899

Introduction

A small genus of five medium-sized (hindwing 20-24 mm) slender-bodied species centred in the Albertine Rift, treated previously as the gracilis-group of Chlorocypha. All species inhabit forested streams, generally at higher elevations, except for S. gracilis which is a lowland species from central Africa. While hybrids are very rarely encountered in odonates, males with characters intermediate between S. molindica and S. tenuis have been found on two occasions in south-western Uganda. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014]

Diagnosis

Closest to the genus Chlorocypha by never expanded and largely black tibiae, at most with whitish pruinosity or anterior side with white streak, and. However, differs by Abd slender rather than broad, with S3 about 3x as long as wide (dorsal view). [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014]

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.

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-10-30].