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Issue: Vol. 5839 No. 3: 30 Jun. 2026
Type: Article
Published: 2026-06-30
DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5839.3.9
Page range: 577-588
Abstract views: 47
PDF downloaded: 3

Description of the larva of the Banded Jewel, Africocypha centripunctata (Gambles, 1975) (Odonata, Chlorocyphidae) from Obudu Plateau, Nigeria with some ecological notes

Department of Zoology; Obafemi Awolowo University; Ile-Ife; Nigeria
Department of Zoology; Obafemi Awolowo University; Ile-Ife; Nigeria
Department of Zoology; Obafemi Awolowo University; Ile-Ife; Nigeria
Odonata Aquatic insect taxonomy dragonfly conservation eccentric jewel damselflies endemic species Nigeria- Cameroon border

Abstract

The larva of the Banded Jewel, Africocypha centripunctata (Gambles, 1975) is described from its type locality, the Obudu montane region of Nigeria. Specimens of this Nigerian-Cameroonian highland range-restricted species are compared with specimens of the more widespread Chlorocypha spp. from western Nigeria. The broad and blunt-tipped cerci of A. centripunctata is adjudged to be a reliable larval diagnostic character of the species from Chlorocypha spp., in addition to a greater body size (F-0 ≥ 16 mm). The montane habitat requirements of larvae of A. centripunctata include lotic systems with good riparian cover, coarse particulate organic matter, high dissolved oxygen saturation and low water temperature. Given the conservation importance of this endangered species, knowledge of its larval identity and ecology could aid more-informed conservation interventions. As odonate larval collections are a major part of the results of hydrobiological assessments for conservation decision makers, an in-depth study of their species-level descriptions is recommended in West Africa.

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How to Cite

Adedapo, A.M., Fagbohun, I.R. & Akindele, E.O. (2026) Description of the larva of the Banded Jewel, Africocypha centripunctata (Gambles, 1975) (Odonata, Chlorocyphidae) from Obudu Plateau, Nigeria with some ecological notes. Zootaxa, 5839 (3), 577–588. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5839.3.9