Erythrodiplax Minuscula, North America
and Mexico
The Little Blue Dragonlet dragonfly is relatively widespread species and
can be readily distinguished in the field by a distinctive powder that
develops into a blue frost (pruina hoarfrost) that covers the thorax and
abdominal body sections, in particular of older individuals.
Watersheds are their habitat as well as marshy ponds, pools, lakes and
slow moving streams. They are found in Arkansas, the Bayou, Brazos, Mississippi,
Neches, Ouachita, San Antonio, San Jacinto, St. Francis, Trinity, and
throughout the United States. 
This species may be quite commonly perched low on grasses or other ground
cover. They generally don't travel far, even when disturbed. Males patrol
and defend small territories close to the water’s edge where competition
is minimal and they have an easier time escaping larger dragonflies. Mating
occurs quickly, generally in less than 20 seconds, followed by females
laying eggs (ovipositing) on emergent plants guarded by males.
|