Southern Damselfly, caballito del diablo

Description:

Damselfly of the Coenagrionidae family. The scientific name, mercuriale, is because of the distinctive markings on the second segment of the abdomen that resembles the astrological symbol for the planet Mercury - ☿. 20 a 45 mm long. Thin body and short legs and abdomen. Transversally elongated head and separated eyes. Inmatures are paler, light brown colored with whitish lines. The wings are narrow. The larvae spend two years underwater before emerging as damselflies.

Habitat:

They require areas of open vegetation, mixed with slow flowing water in which to lay their eggs. Spotted at a small brook close to the sea

Notes:

Camera Model: NIKON D300. Exposure Time: 1/250 sec.; f/13; ISO Speed Rating: 400. Focal Length: 300.0 mm