Insect · GBIF taxon 1426437
Black-shouldered Spinyleg
Dromogomphus spinosusBlack-shouldered spinylegs are robust clubtail dragonflies named for the unusually long, sharp spines lining their hind legs, which form an effective grasping basket to snatch prey in midair. Adults typically hunt and bask along sunny, rocky rivers, gravel shores, and wind-swept lakes, perching flat against stones or exposed riverbanks rather than clinging vertically to reeds. Aquatic nymphs burrow into fine sand and gravel substrate for up to several years before emerging simultaneously in early summer.
PercherAquaticPredator
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Mayflies
- Midges
- Damselflies
Predators
- Songbirds
- Frogs
- Larger dragonflies
ThreatsSiltation, dam construction, and aquatic chemical pollution
HabitatsClean, rocky streams, rivers, and wave-washed lake shores
Life span1–3 years (majority spent as an aquatic nymph; adults live 4–6 weeks)
Classification
- OrderOdonata
- FamilyGomphidae
- GenusDromogomphus
- SpeciesDromogomphus spinosus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Spotting Perches: Scan flat shoreline rocks, cobble bars, and driftwood along moving water where adults bask horizontally in direct sunlight.
- Careful Stalking: Approach slowly from behind without casting a shadow, as their compound eyes readily detect abrupt overhead movements.
Image unavailableNeighbor 
Prey (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Katja Schulz · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Sam Kieschnick, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-bySame Family
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Found in Collections
Ecosystem chain
Wetland Territory
Black-shouldered Spinyleg is found in this collection. Identify it in Fauna to fill this slot and continue your progress.
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