| Libellulidae is the largest odonate family in Costa Rica with 27 genera and 92 species. Over 30 species have been recorded in the Monteverde region, though some of these are migrants that breed at lower elevations. Libellulids tend to be fast fliers that spend a lot of time on the wing. Some species feed primarily by patrolling, while others hunt from perches. They inhabit a wide variety of aquatic habitats including both still and running water, but are more abundant in ponds than streams. Wing venation is especially important for identifying the genera. Color pattern and male genitalia are more useful for distinguishing the species. |
