Calopteryx

Calopteryx is a genus of damselflies commonly known as broad-winged damselflies or demoiselles. These insects belong to the family Calopterygidae, which is characterized by its large, often brightly colored wings. The genus Calopteryx is particularly notable for the prominent pterostigma, a thickened cell near the tip of each wing, which is typically large and conspicuous in these species.

Members of the genus Calopteryx are found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with a wide distribution across Europe, Asia, and North America. They are typically associated with clean, flowing water, such as streams and rivers, where their larvae develop. Adult damselflies are often seen in flight along the water's edge, where they hunt small flying insects.

A distinguishing feature of many Calopteryx species, particularly males, is the coloration of their wings. While females often have clear wings, males can exhibit a range of colors, including iridescent blues, greens, and even shades of red or bronze, depending on the species. This coloration is often intensified by the pterostigma. Sexual dimorphism is common, with males typically being more brightly colored and larger than females. Their flight is characterized by a slow, deliberate fluttering, which has earned them the common name "demoiselles."