Dragonfly

Dragonfly
	; (CC) Photo: John Wright
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia (animals);
Phylum:	Arthropoda (arthropods);
Subphylum:	Hexapoda (hexapods);
Class:	Insecta (insects);
Subclass:	Pterygota;
Infraclass:	Palaeoptera;
Order:	Odonata (odonates);
Suborder:	Epiprocta (dragonflies);
Infraorder:	Anisoptera (true dragonflies); Selys, 1800
Families
	Aeshnidae; Austropetaliidae; Cordulegastridae; Corduliidae; Gomphidae; Libellulidae; Macromiidae; Neopetaliidae; Petaluridae;

Main Article

Discussion

Related Articles ^[?]

Bibliography ^[?]

External Links ^[?]

Citable Version ^[?]

Gallery ^[?]

This editable Main Article is under development and subject to a disclaimer.

[edit intro]

Dragonflies are insects belonging to the order Odonata, the infraorder Anisoptera. They are characterized by an elongated body, two pairs of strong, usually transparent wings, and large multifaceted eyes. Eyes touch in most species. Wings are held perpendicular to the body when at rest. Hindwings broaden near the base. The last three features can be used to distinguished dragonflies from damselflies.

(CC) Photo: Igor Grešovnik
A dragonfly (species Orthetrum cancellatum) resting above the water surface.

Dragonfly

Navigation menu

Search