Identification This is one of the most complex families represented in Victoria, with twelve species in all. To identify most of these species, the observer needs to pay careful attention to detail but with some practice and patience, they are possible to identify, especially if perched views are obtained. 

Beware, Adversaeschna brevistyla is superficially very similar and in a different family altogether. It behaves quite differently and is a much bulkier insect. With practice, this species is easily ruled out. It also tends to occur in quite open and modified habitats, whilst most Telephlebids occur in forested areas - with the possible exception of Austroaeschna parvistigma.  

Of the 12 species of Telephlebiid, Telephlebia brevicauda is completely different to the rest. It is mainly brown and mostly active at dawn and dusk. It also has distinct dark bars along the leading edge of the wings.  At least one species, Dendroaeschna conspersa, is rare and localised in the far north of the State.

Notoaeschna sagittata is unique in having only a single line of bold triangular spots along the dorsal side of its abdomen. All Austroaeschnas have paired spots, though A. pulchra is unique in having only single mid-dorsal markings on the first and last segments of the abdomen. This feature is unique to the species and a reliable field character.

The Austroaeschnas

Close attention to particular characters is required. The following species-pairs exist in Victoria and are particularly similar:

Austroaeschna multipunctata <> Austroaeschna parvistigma

Austroaeschna unicornis  <> Austroaeschna inermis

Austroaeschna atrata <> Austroaeschna subapicalis

Features to concentrate on include the pattern of marking on the face, particularly the frons and whether the species has a yellow or dark occipital triangle. Also, habitat and altitude may indicate which species is most likely. The following figures illustrate the main facial characters of all but three species, as we have yet to document these.