Lestidae are easily identified thanks to the metallic green color with bronze nuances, the blue pruinosity shown by some adult males and the bigger size (compared to other Zygoptera).

The pterostigma is rectangular, its width twice than its height, and this peculiarity allows identification of some of the species. They have pentagonal cells on the wings, useful to separate Lestidae from Platycnemididae and Coenagrionidae (those species have quadrangular cells).

The appendages are oversized.

Exophytic oviposition occurs on shrub branches or on big trees nearby breeding sites and the eggs can withstand cold and drying-up conditions. Larvae have a quick development.

Adults when at rest hold the wings half-spread.