Taxonomy
Ischnura pumilio | Scarce Blue-tailed Damselfly | Rinnghorm Beag
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Ireland: Vulnerable
EU: Least Concern
The data shows that this is a declining species of odonate with a 25% decline in the number of
occupied hectads and Area of Occupation. This decline has happened in a period of increased survey coverage and it is considered that the actual decline is more than that measured.
Native status
Native
Species Biology
Identification
Length: 2.9cm
Wingspan: 3.3cm
Both sexes have a two-toned wing spot and a bronze-black dorsal surface of the abdomen with green/blue sides and a yellow underside. The thorax of adult males is pale blue on top and green on the bottom. The rear of segment 8 and all of segment 9 of the abdomen is blue except for two small black dots on segment 9.
Immature females have a bright orange colour but
become a greenish-brown when they mature, their thorax turns an apple-green
colour.
Habitat
Found mainly in seepages and flushes in heaths and bogs, in quarries, dune slacks, and shores of large lakes. Prefers slow-moving or still waters. Habitats usually lack an abundance of vegetation, but emergent, soft-stemmed plants are need when females laying their eggs.
Flight period
May to August (occasionally September)
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
Found mainly along the west and towards the north, from Co. Kerry to Donegal. Rarely seen due to its specific and endangered habitat.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
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