Pseudagrion (B) commoniae (Förster, 1902)
Black Sprite

Type locality: Ethiopia, no locality data available.

Diagnosis

Species not particularly close to any other Pseudagrion species by similar to most by (a) often in open; widespread; (b) S8-9 both usually distinctly marked with black apically, sometimes pruinose; (c) cerci without flange, at most inner border of lower branch angled; (d) cerci at most with small basal tooth; (e) paraprocts often with dorsal knob. However, differs by (1) face, dorsum of head and dorsum of thorax entirely black, postocular spots and antehumeral stripes absent; (2) tibiae dark, like femora; (3) paraprocts almost 2x as long as cerci (lateral view). [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014; this diagnosis not yet verified by author]

Habitat description

Standing waters, rivers and streams in open landscapes. Often with emergent vegetation. From 0 to 1700 m above sea level, but mostly below 1100, although possibly even higher up.

Distribution

Appendages (dorsal view)	Appendages (lateral view)
Penis (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.

Reference

• Förster, F. (1902). Uber palaearctische Libellen. Cordulia aenea-turfosa Förster und Cordulia shurtleffi Scudder. Mitteilungen Badischen Zoologischen Vereins, 15, 7-9.

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