About Elattoneura frenulata (Hagen, 1860)
Elattoneura frenulata, commonly known as the sooty threadtail, is a small damselfly that reaches 35 mm (1.4 in) in length, with a maximum wingspan of 46 mm (1.8 in). It has black eyes that are set far apart, and it does not have postocular spots. In males, the thorax and abdomen are sooty black on the upper side, and blue or grey-white on the lower side. The terminal abdominal segments are blue-grey. Females have brown abdomens and thoraxes, and young females can be confused with Elattoneura glauca. This species is primarily found in the Western Cape of South Africa, with its range extending slightly into the Eastern Cape. It is a localized endemic of montane areas, and is most often found where streams narrow between bushes over small streams, the habitat where it breeds. It prefers rivers with pools and slow-moving sections, and is commonly found among tall grass. Elattoneura frenulata perches low on grass stems and other streamside vegetation. It also often sits on rocks or bare ground near water. Individuals are generally sluggish and reluctant to fly. When disturbed, it flies with a hovering gait, does not fly far, and quickly settles on a new perch.
