genus: Brachymesia

Tropical Pennants

There are three species currently known to North America. These dragonflies vary in size from small to large.  Generally they are red, yellow to almost all black in coloration.  The thorax in almost all species lack a patterning to it, the abdomen is somewhat stocky and tapers off in some of the species, while in other may appear comprised or enlarged.

Tropical Pennants are native to pond and lakes, but may also be seen in brackish waters.  They are usually perched for long periods of time and can be easily observed.