These are medium-sized Anisoptera (average wingspan about 50 mm). Most of the species feature metallic green color (darker in older individuals) and mainly most of the Somatochlora have shiny green body. Their eyes are often green. Males feature a persistent and quick flight, with frequent changes in direction. Females are more difficult to see because they usually hide in riparian vegetation. These species are generally rather demanding in their ecological needs and thus live in very localized habitats, often on the mountains in this region.