NANNOPHYA PYGMAEA Meaning and
Definition
-
Nannophya pygmaea, commonly known as the pygmy damselfly, is a species of damselfly belonging to the family Coenagrionidae. This small insect is characterized by its diminutive size and delicate appearance.
The adult pygmy damselfly typically measures only around 25-30 millimeters in length, making it one of the smallest damselfly species in the world. It has a slender body, with long, narrow wings that are usually transparent or slightly iridescent. The males exhibit an attractive combination of metallic blue and black colors on their thorax, while the females are typically pale green or brown.
These damselflies are usually found in freshwater habitats such as ponds, ditches, and slow-moving streams. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation, as this provides them with perching sites and suitable areas for egg-laying. The pygmy damselfly is known for its agile flight, often hovering or darting around near the water surface.
In terms of behavior, the pygmy damselfly exhibits a typical damselfly reproductive strategy. Mating usually occurs in tandem, with the male clasping the female behind her head while she curls her abdomen to transfer sperm to her reproductive organs. The females then lay their eggs either by inserting them into the plant tissue or by dropping them into the water.
Overall, the pygmy damselfly is an intriguing insect species due to its small size, delicate appearance, and fascinating life cycle.
Etymology of NANNOPHYA PYGMAEA
The word "Nannophya" is derived from two Greek words: "nanno" meaning dwarf or small, and "phya" meaning to appear or to shine. This name reflects the small size and bright appearance of the dragonfly species it refers to.
The word "pygmaea" is a Latin term meaning dwarf or pygmy. It is also used to refer to extremely small creatures or plants.
