Clubtails

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Subphylum: Hexapoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Odonata

Family: Gomphidae

Most of the species in this family are found sitting on rocks or logs near fast moving rivers and streams. They move from resting place to resting place and snatch up any prey they find along the way. Some species are found near ponds and slow moving water sources.

Clubtail's get their name from the bulge that many species have at the end of their abdomen that makes the abdomen look a little like a club. The bulge is usually larger in males.

Unlike most species of dragonflies, the clubtail's eyes are widely separated. Clubtails are usually between 1.5-2.5 inches in length. Most species are black with yellow or green markings. Most clubtail species spend up to three years as nymphs. There are around 900 species in this family.