What is lestes?

Lestes is a genus of damselflies in the family Lestidae, commonly known as spreadwings. They are found throughout the world, with a higher diversity in tropical regions. They typically have narrow, elongated wings that are held outstretched at rest. Most species have a metallic blue or green coloration with black markings. Females are usually more subdued in color.

Lestes damselflies are found in a variety of freshwater habitats including ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers. They are active during the day and feed on small flying insects such as mosquitoes and flies. They are important predators in their ecosystems and help control insect populations.

The life cycle of Lestes includes several stages, starting with eggs laid in aquatic vegetation. The eggs then hatch into larvae, which live underwater and feed on small aquatic organisms. After several molts, the larvae emerge from the water and become winged adults.

Lestes damselflies are not considered threatened or endangered, but some species are more vulnerable due to habitat loss and degradation. They are important indicators of freshwater ecosystem health and are therefore closely monitored by conservationists.