Green Club-tailed Dragonfly
Ophiogomphus cecilia
This dragonfly is one of the 73 dragonfly species (Odonata) so far recorded in Slovenia. It inhabits lowland rivers, which have at least partially preserved their dynamics, but can also be found at some larger streams. Its larvae live in quieter parts of watercourses, buried in fine or coarse sandy
floor, while adult dragonflies are powerful and fast fliers that can often be seen in the middle of watercourses. Males are extremely territorial and can be observed sitting on the banks. Not much is known about females and their life, given the fact that researchers usually see them only while moulting.
Threat factors
Green Club-tailed Dragonfly is threatened by habitat destruction, specifically regulation of watercourses, as well as by their urban destruction and pollution. To preserve this species, it is therefore of utmost importance to protect the corresponding aquatic and terrestrial habitats and their interconnectedness.
Project activities
Within the project, we attempt to improve the hydromorphology of the river channel bed in the area of morphologically monotonous built structures. Thus we should also indirectly contribute to greater local species diversity. To raise public awareness as to the importance of conserving this species, its habitats and natural river processes, educational and interpretation pints will be set up.
Why do we need dragonflies?
Dragonflies have a major effect on the abundance of insects in nature, where adults also successfully prey, inter alia, on mosquitoes.
They are important bioindicators – the high species diversity of dragonflies is an eloquent proof of the conservation of wider aquatic and riparian habitats.
What can we do to improve the conservation status of dragonflies?
- We should protect rivers, streams, pools and other aquatic habitats.
- We should not pollute the water.
- We should preserve the riparian zones with natural vegetation.
- We should preserve hedgerows and extensively farmed grasslands. Land habitats are important as feeding habitats.
- We should limit water regulations and stimulate renaturation, prevent the decline of river bed load and focus on restoration of river dynamics.
