Somatochlora arctica - Northern Emerald
Male
Male
Female
Description
Length: 50mm
The Northern Emerald has bluish-green (sometimes yellowish) eyes.
The wings are faintly suffused with saffron.
The thorax are metallic bronze green but the abdomen is quite dark.
The male has an obviously waisted abdomen with calliper-like appendages.
Females have a short vulvar scale and are more parallel sided.
Habitat
Breeds in moorland bogs and pools, often with much Sphagnum.
Adults patrol wet meadows and open areas in pine woods or on moors with scattered trees.
Status and Distribution
Uncommon. Restricted to north-west Scotland and south-west Ireland.
Distribution map from the National Biodiversity Network Gateway (opens in new window).
Similar species
The Downy Emerald and Brilliant Emerald are somewhat similar in appearance.