Neodythemis takamandensis (Vick, 2000)
Bizarre Junglewatcher

Synonyms:

  • scientific: Mesumbethemis takamandensis

Type locality: Takamanda Forest, Cameroon

Diagnosis

This extremely distinct species differs from all other continental Neodythemis by (1) Fw discoidal field of 2 rows at base, rather than starting with 1 and widening distally to 2; (2) anal loop of more than 8 cells, e.g. 13-14, as there is likely to be more variation; (3) inner branch of hamule extremely elongated, reaching well over anterior border of hamule base; (4) cerci angularly bent at midlength. The thoracic markings are also distinctive.

Habitat description

Not known well, but probably standing and mostly temporary waters shaded by forest. Probably especially pools in streambeds, usually with coarse detritus, often blackwater and/or probably emergent vegetation and a sandy and/or soft (like muddy) bottom. From 100 to 600 m above sea level.

Distribution

confirmed: Cameroon; Gabon


© Nicolas Meziere


Appendages (lateral view)

Abdominal segment 2 (lateral view)

Abdominal segment 2 (ventral view)

Wings

Thorax (lateral view)

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.


Reference

  • Vick, G.S. (2000). Mesumbethemis takamandensis gen. nov., spec. nov., a new genus and species of the Tetrathemistinae from Cameroon, with a key to the African genera of the subfamily (Anisoptera: Libellulidae) Odonatologica, 29, 225-237. [PDF file]

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-03-28].