88. Aristocypha iridea iridea (Selys, 1891)

No: 88 / Family: Chlorocyphidae / Genus: Aristocypha

Name: Aristocypha iridea iridea / Sky-striped Jewel* / แมลงปอเข็มปีกดําแถบท้องฟ้า

Habitat: Upland streams

Province(s): Chiang Mai
In flight: April / Sightings (by me): Rare

Easily confused with: Aristocypha fenestrella, Heliocypha biforata, Heliocypha perforata limbata

*Name adapted up by me (based on Thai names/existing common names of other species in genus).

Another uncommon montane species I was lucky enough to spot when I visited Doi Inthanonon, Chiang Mai, was Aristocypha iridea iridea. It was sitting on a branch that streched out across the river and was happily soaking up the afternoon sun.

The male

The markings on the abdomen make it easy to identify. This was the only male that I saw in the whole time I was in Chiang Mai.

The female ???

This female was the only other specimen anywhere near the male above. It was perched on a branch very close by and they often came into contact with one another before the returned back to their exact places. I haven't seen any photos of the female and can only assume that this is it. Also, being at around 1400-1500 metres up, I'm not sure other species of the genus, go that high. If anyone knows otherwise, please let me know.

31. Aristocypha fenestrella (Rambur, 1842)

No: 31 / Family: Chlorocyphidae / Genus: Aristocypha

Name: Aristocypha fenestrella / Peacock Jewel 

Habitat: Forested Streams and Rivers
Province(s): Widespread
In flight: Year-round / Sightings (by me): Very Common

Easily confused with: N/A

Another widespread river-dwelling damselfly that is very common but simply divine, is Aristocypha fenestrella. I have seen this species at several rivers and streams throughout Thailand and it loves sunny areas, where there are lots of boulders in the river. Commonly known as the Peacock Jewel, it will probably be one of the more common species you will encounter at a river or stream. If you see it, carefully get yourself down to eye level - your camera will thank you for it.

The male

The male is simply beautiful. Once it is fully mature, it has lots of metallic colouration to its wings. Sometimes, a green tinge when younger which goes more of a blue/purple as it matures. They really are beautiful to look at. Not surprising, really, that its nickname is Peacock Jewel.

The 'Young' Male

Some younger males have more pink and greenish iridescence against the black wings.

The Female

The female is far less interesting to look at and is dull in comparison. The females are often confused with other similar species, but I think the markings on the female are quite distinct. Also, the wings are brown in colour.

You can find this species throughout the country all year at upland and some lowland rivers. Look for big boulders and rocky areas where the sun is bursting through the tree canopy. You're sure to find them there.