Gomphus lucasii Selys, 1849
Algerian Clubtail

Type locality: Algeria, no locality data available.

Diagnosis

Replaces G. simillimus in Algeria and Tunisia, where it is the only species of its genus. Strongly resembles G. simillimus but may be even paler than individuals of that species from Morocco. S8-9 are said to be brighter yellow and the black lines on the thorax are especially thin; the yellow antehumeral stripe is bordered by two much finer black lines, of which the anterior one is usually not connected to the black flanking the mid-dorsal crest. There are mid-dorsal yellow dots on abdominal segments 8 and 9, which do not reach the posterior segment margins. Legs are black, with yellow lines along the segments. Because both species are variable, identification must be based on hand characters. Male’s upper appendages are less diverging and with more tapering tips than G. simillimus and they eclipse the lower appendages less perfectly (view from above). The female’s vulvar scale is shorter. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Lewington 2006]

Habitat description

Streams in open landscapes. Often with bare banks, coarse detritus and a sandy and/or soft (like muddy) bottom. From 0 to 700 m above sea level, although possibly up to 1200.

Distribution

Map citation: Clausnitzer, V., K.-D.B. Dijkstra, R. Koch, J.-P. Boudot, W.R.T. Darwall, J. Kipping, B. Samraoui, M.J. Samways, J.P. Simaika & F. Suhling, 2012. Focus on African Freshwaters: hotspots of dragonfly diversity and conservation concern. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 10: 129-134.

Reference

• de Sélys-Longchamps, E. (1849). Libellulines de l'Algerie Histoire naturelle des animaux articulés. Exploration scientifique de l'Algérie, pendant les années 1840, 1841 et 1842 Imprimerie Nationale, Paris, 1-527.

Citation: Dijkstra, K.-D.B (editor). African Dragonflies and Damselflies Online. http://addo.adu.org.za/ [2024-04-19].