93. Gynacantha subinterrupta (Rambur, 1842)

No: 93 / Family: Aeschnidae / Genus: Gynacantha

Name: Gynacantha subinterrupta / Dingy Duskhawker 

Habitat: Forested streams/ponds (uplands & lowlands)

Province(s): Widespread
In flight: April-December / Sightings (by me): Common

Easily confused with: Gynacantha phaeomeria, Gynacantha incisura, Gynacantha saltatrix

A big and fairly common dragonfly I see often is Gynacantha subinterrupta, commonly known as the Dingy Dusthawker. I have seen this species at many places throughout the country. However, I most often see the immature males and females. Fully mature specimens are seemingly rare to see (or never fully turn that colour). Though this species is easily the most common in the genus, it certainly isn't easy to find as it is crepuscular, meaning active at dawn and dusk. Therefore, during the heat of the day, it hides sometimes deep under tree canopy, often nearish to water. The easiest way to spot it is to walk and hope that you spook one out, then watch where it lands after flying like a crazed beast for a while.

The Male

Usually if you see a species of Gynacantha, it is this species. It is identifiable through its 'T' on the frons and the unique markings on the abdomen. However, ideally you need to look carefully at the appendages (see below). The mature is rather scarcely seen (for me at least) but sports blue eyes and a greenish thorax with a brownish abdomen with greenish spots. 

Can you see it?

The 'Young' Male

The younger males are more of a brown colour with a sprinkling of colour coming in.

The Female

The old female is very similar to that of the male and are often found in the same area.

  Here's the first ever female I saw in Khon Kaen.

The 'Dead' Male

While I was teaching at school, one of Beau's (my wife) students was cleaning the inside of one of air conditioning units and came across a large dragonfly. It was just alive, but only just. I think it had been sucked inside. It was a youngish male. It gave me a good chance to get some really clear photos. I saw about 10 specimens in a few days at school.

Gynacantha subinterrupta, male - caudal appendages, dorsal view