Elusive Clubtail
Stylurus notatus
This record describes Stylurus notatus (species). Recorded family: Gomphidae. Recorded order: Odonata.
Identification and Appearance
Blue eyes are distinctive among similar species. Length of S8 and S9 are similar (S9 much longer in Arrow Clubtail ( S. spiniceps ).
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Northeastern part of the continent, centered around Michigan and Ohio
About Dragonflies and Damselflies: the wider group
Order-level background for Odonata, the group containing Stylurus notatus. 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 Elusive Clubtail (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jason Forbes
Frequently Asked Questions About Elusive Clubtail
What is Elusive Clubtail?
Elusive Clubtail (Stylurus notatus) is a species in the family Gomphidae, within the order Odonata.
How do you identify Elusive Clubtail?
Blue eyes are distinctive among similar species. Length of S8 and S9 are similar (S9 much longer in Arrow Clubtail ( S. spiniceps ).
Where is Elusive Clubtail found?
Range: Northeastern part of the continent, centered around Michigan and Ohio