Tramea loewii

Tramea loewii is a medium to large dragonfly (wingspan 85 mm, length 45 mm). Its synthorax is striped yellowish to brown on a purplish background. Males have a red abdomen, and the last two segments have black markings. Females are a dull brown colour. Dark patches at the base of their hindwings are a characteristic feature of this species; males have red patches and females have brown. Tramea loewii is very similar to Tramea stenoloba which has a darker synthorax, and larger genital dimensions.[3]

Tramea loewii inhabits a wide range of still waters, ponds and swamps, and may breed many times in a year. In Australia it is widespread except for the far south-west of the continent.[3]

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  Male common glider has a red abdomen with black markings near the tip
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  Female common glider has a brown abdomen with black markings near the tip
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  Male viewed from the side
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  Female viewed from the side
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  Male face
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  Female face
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  Illustration of male Tramea wing venation
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  Photo of female wings
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  1. Tramea loewii from Australian Insects 1907