29. Merogomphus paviei (Martin, 1904)

No: 29 / Family: Gomphidae / Genus: Merogomphus

Name: Merogomphus paviei / Arched Longleg Clubtail* 

Habitat: Heavily forested uplands streams 
Province(s): Chaiyaphum, Petchabun
In flight: May-October / Sightings (by me): Rare

Easily confused with: N/A

*As there’s no common name, I’ve used ‘Arched’ from the Thai name, and although some genus names exist, I’ve given the genus the name ‘Longleg Clubtail’ in an attempt to standardise genus names. 

I have visited Nam Nao National Park on two occasions and the second time I visited, I saw this large dragonfly Merogomphus paviei. It patrolled the river which runs though the headquarters and was intent on upsetting a group of male T. aurora that were in the area. Amazingly, it seemed to be able to fly backwards in retreat. I watch it for several moments and managed to get a few good photos of it before it disappeared, probably bored of playing with the other dragonflies.

Now I have spotted a few males, I can fairly confidently ID this species even when in flight. Mainly due to the fact that the males arch their abdomens downwards - a characteristic I have only seen with this species. I have since spotted this species a couple of times at Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary, which isn't surprising.

The Male

This is the male of the species, and is characterised by the 'club' like end segments to the abdomen and its arched abdomen, which becomes apparent, especially in flight. The shape of the anal appendages are also interesting (see close up).

 Here's the 'club-like' caudal appendages.

The Female

The female is much rarer to see. To the point, this is the only one I have ever seen and it was at a pond a good distance away from any stream. Look at the size of its head compare to its body... and those legs are to die for! I was so scared when I saw this that it would just fly way that I decided to net it first. 

And upon release...

Check out the appendages...

As ever, many thanks to Noppadon Makbun for the ID.