147: Gomphidia kruegeri kruegeri (Martin, 1904)

Number: 147 / Family: Gomphidae / Genus: Gomphidia

Species: Gomphidia kruegeri kruegeri / Kruger’s Spotted Tiger*

Habitat: Small Openings in Forested Streams

Province(s) sighted: Chaiyaphum, Petchabun, Bueng Khan

Sightings (by me): Uncommon

In flight (that I have seen): June
Species easily confused with: Gomphidia abbotti abbotti; Gomphidictinus perakensis; Ictinogomphus decoratus melaenops; Ictinogomphus rapax

*As there is no common name, I have decided upon 'Spotted Tiger' as the genus name after the Thai name and Kruger for obvious reasons, so Kruger's Spotted Tiger.

Thank you, Mapor!!! I initially thought this was a slightly older Gomphidictinus perakensis, as it has slightly  different thoracic markings. However, Mapor thinks that this specimen is, in fact, Gomphidia kruegeri kruegeri.  I'm so glad that he noticed this as it has made it 3 new species in 4 days! It is very similar to G. perakensis, however, the thoracic marks are different. With this species the antehumeral stripe is a 'boomerang' shape and solid, whereas on G. perakensis (see entry), it is broken at the top. Also, the yellow dorsal marks on the thorax are simple to compared to the 'messy' marks on G. perakensis. Since them I have seen this species a number of times, though it is easy to misidentify it. 

The Male

This specimen was perched low down to the stream, and large in size. As mentioned, this species seems to differ from G. perakensis, due to it differing thoracic markings. The caudal appendages are almost identical, but seem slightly longer. Also, unlike G. perakensis, G. kruegeri kruegeri will fly away if approached and seemingly not return. However, this is based on one specimen.

Here is another male at Nam Nao Natinal Park that was grounded due to rain... until it just 'went for it' and bombed it off into the trees.

Male appendages ...

though its the thoracic markings that easily distinguish this species from other similar looking species.

The Female

Here is my only shot of the female... one shot, gone! Though check out those eggs!!!

Many, many thanks to Mapor for pointing out my errors AND for giving me another species!!!