African Diplacodes: the status of the small species and the genus Philonomon (Odonata: Libellulidae)

Abstract

The small African species of Diplacodes have been confused for a long time, in part because the black mature males are difficult to separate. The holotype of D. deminuta belongs to the species commonly known as D. okavangoensis, the former name taking priority, while its paratypes belong to that known erroneously as D. deminuta, which is described as the new species D. pumila. Philonomon is considered a junior synonym of Diplacodes and the sole species, P. luminans, is transferred accordingly. Species identification relative to sex and developmental state is clarified: some specimens, either very old or young, will be difficult to separate without reference material.

Keywords: Odonata, Dragonfly, Anisoptera, Diplacodes, Philonomon, Taxonomy, Synonyms, Africa

Issue section: Article