Nehalennia speciosa, male

Nehalennia speciosa, male

Very rare species that was classified as extinct in Sweden until a few years ago. At the moment it is known from Uppland and Östergötland. It may also be found in Öland but recent expeditions to the last known locality did not find the species in the known location. The best locality is in Östergötland were I did see several hundreds of the species in one day. The very small size of the species makes it very hard to spot. One useful method is to drag the net several times through the grass and then check the net. The species is flying just a few centimetres above the water surface in the vegetation. It is very hard to photograph as it is so tiny, a good telephoto lens with long extension tubes are recommended. Close distance and big magnifications makes depth of field very narrow and it is very tricky to get complete insect in focus. Due to the limited locations of the species very little is known regarding the typical locations. The Uppland and Östergötland locations have a few things in common: Bog waters with rich flora such as Orchids. Forest was cut down close to location.

Key characteristics

The tiny size makes it hard to mix up. The second smallest species Coenagrion johanssoni is much darker and significantly larger. Along the back of the head it has a bright band that is not present at any other Swedish species.

In air

Might be found from May to September, but June to August is more likely. Due to rareness of species flight times are a bit uncertain as the species has few observations

Page updated Augsut 11 2009
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