Synlestidae

The Synlestidae are a family of damselflies commonly known as sylphs or malachites. They rest the same way as spreadwing damselflies (Lestidae) do. Species in Synlestidae look similar to species in Lestidae.

Descriptive features

• antennal segment 2 markedly longer than segment 3
• prementum markedly longer than wide
• premental ligula with well-developed median cleft
• lobes of premental ligula not bulbous, moderately raised
• no premental setae
• labial palps without setae
• paraglossae absent
• abdomen slender
• median and lateral caudal gills similar in form
• caudal gills leaf-like, arranged vertically, apex rounded or slightly pointed, without *terminal stylus or filament
• Total length: 21.0–36.0 mm

Distribution

• Africa
• Asia
• Australia
• Haiti

References

• http://www.mdfrc.org.au/bugguide/display.asp?type=5&class=17&subclass=&Order=5&family=96&couplet=0
• http://www.publish.csiro.au/web_cds_demo/dragonflies/html/1idguide.htm