Eleuthemis quadrigutta Pinhey, 1974
Goldrush Firebelly

Type locality: Haroni River, Melsetter, Zimbabwe

Diagnosis

Male is superficially similar to E. buettikoferi by the abdomen being (a) entirely whitish pruinose on the upperside with maturity; and (b) largely orange on the underside. However, unique within the genus by (1) the very distinct dark tip to Hw as well as Fw; (2) the black-rimmed orange epiproct that contrasts with the wholly black cerci, rather than both being either all dark or partly orange; and (3) the presence of a second ventral tooth somewhat basal to the tooth on the thickening of the cerci. [Adapted from Dijkstra, Kipping & Mézière 2015]

Habitat description

Rivers and streams shaded by gallery forest. Especially faster sections, usually with overhanging branches, submerged roots and/or probably rocks. From 300 to 1300 m above sea level.

Distribution

Map citation: Clausnitzer, V., K.-D.B. Dijkstra, R. Koch, J.-P. Boudot, W.R.T. Darwall, J. Kipping, B. Samraoui, M.J. Samways, J.P. Simaika & F. Suhling, 2012. Focus on African Freshwaters: hotspots of dragonfly diversity and conservation concern. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 10: 129-134.

Barcode specimen(s):

Reference

• Pinhey, E.C.G. (1974). Three undescribed odonata taxa from Africa. Arnoldia, 7, 1-6. [PDF file]

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2023-05-29].