Copera guttifera (Fraser, 1950)
Western Featherleg

Synonyms:

• scientific: Platycnemis guttifera

Type locality: Ziabli, Liberia

Diagnosis

Male similar to C. rufipes by (a) larger size, Hw 17-21 mm; (b) S3-7 with pale basal and subapical rings (may be incomplete dorsally), giving abdomen annulated effect; (c) cerci almost as long as paraprocts; (d) branches of cerci long, lying close to and often surpassing cerci tips. However, differs by (1) occurring in western Africa (Liberia to Nigeria); (2) thorax with irregular speckled markings, antehumeral stripe often reduced to some pale speckles on an otherwise all black mesepisternum; (3) legs yellow with darkened joints; (4) branches of cerci with slender pointed tips.

Habitat description

Mostly standing and probably often temporary waters, but also headwater streams and possibly larger streams, seeps and springs, shaded by forest. Often with coarse detritus and a soft (like muddy) bottom, probably especially pools in stream beds. From 0 to 700 m above sea level, but mostly around 200.

Distribution

Appendages (dorsal view)	Appendages (lateral view)
Thorax (lateral view)

Map citation: Clausnitzer, V., K.-D.B. Dijkstra, R. Koch, J.-P. Boudot, W.R.T. Darwall, J. Kipping, B. Samraoui, M.J. Samways, J.P. Simaika & F. Suhling, 2012. Focus on African Freshwaters: hotspots of dragonfly diversity and conservation concern. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 10: 129-134.

Barcode specimen(s):

Reference

• Fraser, F.C. (1950). Report on a collection of Odonata from Liberia. Bulletin Institut francais Afrique noire, 12, 611-624. [PDF file]

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-10-11].