black torrent dart Dysphaea ethela

Here's an insect with a beautiful origin story: this damselfly is named in honor of Ethel Grace Fraser (1881–1960), the devoted wife of entomologist Frederic Charles Fraser. Rather than wait at home, Ethel was a constant companion on his collecting expeditions in India, sharing his scientific passion and contributing to countless discoveries. The 'torrent dart' refers to its habitat: fast-flowing mountain streams and rocky rivers where it darts with precision among the rapids. Few insects carry such a touching human story.