Aquatic Minibeast for ID

[jdoherty]

I found this minibeast in a small pond at the bottom of an old quarry in the Belfast Hills. I've included shots of upper and underside to help with ID.

Thanks for your help, John.

[Jenny W]

Looks like a Chaser dragonfly nymph.

[yorkieuk]

I agree with that

[ollyk]

Ruddy Darter?

[jdoherty]

Oops. Now we have two suggestions. Has anyone any other thoughts or opinions?

Thanks everyone for your help with this ID.

John

[Monkey Orchid]

I think I would go with Common Darter nymph, Sympetrum striolatum. (Sorry to add a third possible ID to the list!)

The species is common in Ireland as well as England and Wales; and the short, broad body shape and wide head look right.

I find this guide to dragonfly nymph exuviae useful:
http://www.uksafari.com/jpeg2/dragonflyexuviae.jpg

There is a nice clear photo of a darter nymph at the following web page (you do need to scroll down a little):
Neil - pond dipping - Common darter dragonfly nymph and great diving beetle larva

[ollyk]

You could be right Monkey Orchid, I am not that experienced with individual i.d.'s myself.
I would have thought someone with more experience would have given a more definite I.D. by now!

[jdoherty]

Thanks everyone for your help.

There were common darters flying about at the time I took the pic.

John