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Type: Article
Published: 2026-03-19
Page range: 471-488
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Reexamination of Heteronaias heterodoxa (Selys, 1878) (Odonata: Corduliidae), with larval redescription, comparative notes on Asian Corduliidae larvae, and biogeographic significance

The Center for Entomology & Parasitology Research; College of Medicine and Pharmacy; Duy Tan University; 120 Hoang Minh Thao; Lien Chieu; Da Nang; Vietnam.
The Center for Entomology & Parasitology Research; College of Medicine and Pharmacy; Duy Tan University; 120 Hoang Minh Thao; Lien Chieu; Da Nang; Vietnam.
The Center for Entomology & Parasitology Research; College of Medicine and Pharmacy; Duy Tan University; 120 Hoang Minh Thao; Lien Chieu; Da Nang; Vietnam.
Department of Biological Sciences; College of Arts and Science; Cavite State University; Barangay Bancod; Indang; Cavite; Philippines.
Odonata Dragonfly Peninsular Southeast Asia Taxonomy geographic region

Abstract


Heteronaias Needham & Gyger, 1937 is a monotypic genus represented solely by Heteronaias heterodoxa (Selys, 1878), a poorly documented corduliid. Based on reared specimens from Luzon, Philippines, we provide a detailed larval description, notes on adult morphology, and distributional data. Adult characters, particularly the vesica spermalis of male and female terminalia, are redescribed and illustrated. The larva is distinguished by a flattened body, 9–13 premental setae, 8–11 palpal setae, a poorly developed ligula, middorsal protuberances on abdominal segments 6–10, and a distinct episternal apophysis. Comparative analysis with Asian corduliid genera highlights diagnostic larval features valuable for taxonomy and phylogenetic studies. Larvae inhabit shaded forest streams and emerge on rock surfaces, showing rheophilic adaptations comparable to those of Zygonyx Selys in Hagen, 1867 (Libellulidae). Distributional records confirm that H. heterodoxa is endemic to the Philippines.

 

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How to Cite

Keetapithchayakul, T.S., Kim, J., Phan, Q.T. & Digma, J.R. (2026) Reexamination of Heteronaias heterodoxa (Selys, 1878) (Odonata: Corduliidae), with larval redescription, comparative notes on Asian Corduliidae larvae, and biogeographic significance. Zootaxa, 5777 (3), 471–488. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5777.3.4