Ruby Meadowhawk
Sympetrum rubicundulum
This record describes Sympetrum rubicundulum (species). Recorded family: Libellulidae. Recorded order: Odonata.
Identification and Appearance
Males may be recognizable by shape of hamuli, but see comments by Steve here . rubicundulum and internum may be conspecific; see HERE
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies)
- Suborder
- Anisoptera
- Family
- Libellulidae (Skimmers)
- Genus
- Sympetrum (Meadowhawks)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A variety of wetlands including ponds (often temporary), marshes, bogs, and sluggish streams. Often in fields and clearings far from water.
Geographic Range
Recent work by Mike Blust suggests that this species is not found in New England.
Seasonal Activity
Late summer - fall
Diet and Behavior
Diet: predaceous on other insects
About Dragonflies and Damselflies: the wider group
Order-level background for Odonata, the group containing Sympetrum rubicundulum. 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 Ruby Meadowhawk (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tony DiTerlizzi; Additional contributions by Tony-2 , Nick Block
Frequently Asked Questions About Ruby Meadowhawk
What is Ruby Meadowhawk?
Ruby Meadowhawk (Sympetrum rubicundulum) is a species in the family Libellulidae, within the order Odonata.
How big is Ruby Meadowhawk?
1.3"
How do you identify Ruby Meadowhawk?
Males may be recognizable by shape of hamuli, but see comments by Steve here . rubicundulum and internum may be conspecific; see HERE
Where is Ruby Meadowhawk found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | A variety of wetlands including ponds (often temporary), marshes, bogs, and sluggish streams. Often in fields and clearings far from water. |
| Range | Recent work by Mike Blust suggests that this species is not found in New England. |
What does Ruby Meadowhawk eat?
The diet of the Ruby Meadowhawk includes predaceous on other insects.
When is Ruby Meadowhawk active?
Ruby Meadowhawk: seasonal activity - Late summer - fall.