Description of the final instar larva of Cephalaeschna risi Asahina, 1981 with notes on its semi-terrestrial lifestyle (Odonata: Aeshnidae)

Fang-Shuo Hua , Tsung-Wei Chanb, Lung-Chun Huangc, I-Lung Leed

  1. Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, No. 145, Xingda Rd., South Dist., Taichung City 402, Taiwan
  2. Gaoyi Elementary School, No. 28, Gaoyi, Fuxing Dist., Taoyuan City 336, Taiwan
  3. Conservation and Research Center, Taipei Zoo No. 30, Sec. 2, Xinguang Rd., Taipei City, Taiwan
  4. Taipei Wego Private Senior High School, NO. 50, Zhuhai Rd., Beitou Dist., Taipei City, Taiwan

International Journal of Odonatology, Volume 24, Pages 139-148, 2021
https://doi.org/10.23797/2159-6719_24_10
Published: 8 July 2021 (Received: 1 August 2020, Accepted: 2 February 2021)

Abstract

The final instar larva of Cephalaeschna risi Asahina, 1981 is described for the first time based on material from Taiwan. In Taiwan, the larva of C. risi can be separated from other aeshnid larvae by its relatively short antennae and presence of small protuberances on the legs. Diagnostic characters to distinguish it from other known larvae of Cephalaeschna are also discussed. A comprehensive description, detailed illustrations, bionomics and observations of the semi-terrestrial lifestyle of C. risi are presented. Finally, a key to the genera of Aeshnidae in Taiwan is proposed.

Keywords: dragonfly, Anisoptera, taxonomy, key, bionomics, Taiwan

Issue section: Original article