Mediterranean Bluet

Coenagrion caerulescens (Fonscolombe, 1838)

DESCRIPTION

It can reach 30-40 mm in wingspan. The pterostigma is pale and triangular. As in other Coenagrionidae, males feature blue-black alternation on the thorax and abdominal segments. For identification one have to focus on the 3rd and 4th segments, in this species black for an half or more, and the 7th and 8th segments, almost completely black. Females have more black dorsally, with wide antehumeral stripes, larger than the black stripes below. 

PHENOLOGY

Flight period lasts from May to August.In the Cuneo region data are ranging from June to August. 

HABITAT

This species lives both in still and streaming water areas, with abundant vegetation. 

DISTRIBUTION

Typical species of southern Europe, mainly in the western Mediterranean area. In the Cuneo region it is a rare and localized species, even if it is expanding its range.