Appalachian Snaketail
Ophiogomphus incurvatus
This record describes Ophiogomphus incurvatus (species). Recorded family: Gomphidae. Recorded order: Odonata.
Identification and Appearance
Rather small for a Snaketail. Has no, or very reduced dark stripes on side of thorax. Male has blueish eyes.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Clear streams with sand or gravel bottoms
Geographic Range
Maryland (just into Pennsylvania) south through Appalachians and upper Piedmont to Georgia, Alabama.
Seasonal Activity
April-June
About Dragonflies and Damselflies: the wider group
Order-level background for Odonata, the group containing Ophiogomphus incurvatus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Odonata includes ~6,000 described species of dragonflies and damselflies. Dragonflies are among the fastest flying insects, reaching 36 mph (58 km/h). They can fly in any direction including backward, and hover in place - each wing operates independently.
Ecological role of the group
Dragonflies predate dinosaurs by nearly 100 million years - fossils date to 325 million years ago. The largest dragonfly ancestor, Meganeuropsis permiana (285 mya), had a 75cm wingspan, enabled by atmospheric oxygen levels of 31-35% compared to today's 21%. Dragonflies have a 95% hunting success rate - the highest of any predator.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Dragonflies are voracious predators that consume hundreds of mosquitoes daily, providing natural pest control worth millions in reduced mosquito-borne disease risk. A single dragonfly can eat 30 to hundreds of mosquitoes per day.
Recorded sources for this group: Natural History Museum London, Britannica, fossil record research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Appalachian Snaketail (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Cotinis
Frequently Asked Questions About Appalachian Snaketail
What is Appalachian Snaketail?
Appalachian Snaketail (Ophiogomphus incurvatus) is a species in the family Gomphidae, within the order Odonata.
How big is Appalachian Snaketail?
43 mm length
How do you identify Appalachian Snaketail?
Rather small for a Snaketail. Has no, or very reduced dark stripes on side of thorax. Male has blueish eyes.
Where is Appalachian Snaketail found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Clear streams with sand or gravel bottoms |
| Range | Maryland (just into Pennsylvania) south through Appalachians and upper Piedmont to Georgia, Alabama. |
When is Appalachian Snaketail active?
Appalachian Snaketail: seasonal activity - April-June.