Fluminagrion taxaense
Overview
Fluminagrion taxaense is a critically endangered species of damselfly endemic to Brazil. It may be restricted to Rio de Janeiro, and could possibly be extinct as it has not been seen since its description in 1965. Some of the characteristics of this species are posterior lobe of prothorax trilobate, medial lobe rounded in both male and female, segment 3 of genital ligula C-shaped in lateral view and lack of mesepisternal fossa in female S8 with vulvar spine
Fluminagrion taxaense faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to urban development and agricultural expansion in its limited range. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and urban discharge degrades the pristine stream conditions essential for larval development. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the seasonal water flows critical for this damselfly's reproductive cycle.
Habitat
This critically endangered damselfly inhabits pristine, slow-flowing streams and small rivers with dense riparian vegetation in subtropical regions. The species requires clean, well-oxygenated water with specific temperature ranges and abundant aquatic vegetation for larval development and adult reproduction.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in COENAGRIONIDAE
Threatened in Brazil
Frequently asked questions
Why is Fluminagrion taxaense classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Fluminagrion taxaense live?
What are the main threats to Fluminagrion taxaense?
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