Indian Common Clubtail Ictinogomphus rapax

Photo of Indian Common Clubtail (Ictinogomphus rapax)

(c) Rejoice Gassah, some rights reserved (CC BY)

OrderDragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata)
FamilyClubtails (Gomphidae)
GenusTigertails (Ictinogomphus)

The clubtail dragonflies have an unmistakable look: a distinctively clubbed abdomen that gives the family its name. Found throughout the Indomalayan region, this species is aptly named 'rapax'β€”meaning fierce and predatory. These clubtails are serious hunters, patrolling their territories with aggressive precision. Unlike many dragonflies that hover and dart, clubtails are known for their explosive speed and powerful flight, making them formidable aerial predators. The 'common' in its name suggests it's frequently seen in its native range, though it remains less well-known than flashier dragonfly families.

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