5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal

We hope that each of you, our readers, will enjoy and appreciate this article we present about these 5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal. It was certainly our pleasure to gather the information for you. May it provide you with both education and increased awareness.

Certainly, these few species listed herein represent only a portion of the similar species found in this region. It’s our belief, though, that they serve as excellent representations of the members of this Class. Check out some of our other articles for similar marvels.

Conehead Mantis

Conehead Mantis Facts

• Leading off this article about 5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal we present you the incredible creature named the Conehead Mantis.
• The highly evocative term used herein appropriately serves as the common name for this remarkable insect. This marvel of Nature also goes by another name, though. That’s its somewhat difficult scientific name of the Empusa pennata.
• Regardless of which of these term you use for it, though, it remains blessed with a distinctive appearance. The common name, quite understandably, derives from the presence of the incredible structure on the top of the invertebrate’s head.
• The first recorded scientific recognition of this amazing creature as a separate and distinct species occurred in the year 1815. That formal recognition took place as a result of the work of the well known Swedish naturalist, Carl Peter Thunberg.
• For the moment, the marvelous Conehead Mantis appears to be maintaining a stable and sufficient population. This further seems to be the case throughout the entirety of its range. As a result, the IUCN currently list the species a Least Concern.
• The invertebrate must nevertheless be considered to be facing at least some threats to its existence. One of these is probably the danger posed by increasing habitat loss. Its greatest threat, however, likely consists of ongoing climate change.

Conehead Mantis Physical Description

Although the marvelous Conehead Mantis fully deserves appreciation, this does not derive solely from its sheer physical size. That aspect of the invertebrate does nonetheless rank as respectable, since it represents an above-averaged size variety of mantis.

Like most of its relatives, it also displays a moderate degree of sexual dimorphism. In its specific case, this trait manifests itself in two separate ways, though. Simple physical size forms the first of these, with the female attaining a slightly greater length than the male.

This wonder of Nature achieves a size slightly greater than the European Mantis. That being said, females reach an average length of about 4 in (10 cm). The smaller males, meanwhile, attain varying lengths, but rarely grow beyond 3 in (7.6 cm) in total length.

The second form of gender-based differences among the Conehead Mantis appears in the form of the antennae of the male. These appendages possess a fine, feathery characteristic. However, only the male of the species develops these distinctive features.

Otherwise, the genders remain similar. The colors vary, since it employs active camouflage, but certain ones are more common. These consist of green, pink, and various shades of brown. Its most noticeable feature, though, is the cone-shaped structure on the head.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Mantodea
• Family: Empusidae
• Genus: Empusa
• Species: E. pennata

Conehead Mantis Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The remarkable Conehead Mantis possesses a comparatively broad, if somewhat broken, range of habitation. It’s broad because it covers parts of both Europe and Asia. It’s broken, though, since it only appears in scattered parts of the two continents, not evenly.

More precisely, in Europe, the arthropod seems to live in the countries of France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Bulgaria, and Greece. In Asia, meanwhile, its only known habitat consists of the country of Lebanon. The exact for this pattern presently remains undetermined.

In all regions of the globe in which it appears, though, its habitat preference remains the same. This particular form of mantis prefers to inhabit more open areas, as opposed to denser forest regions. This mainly includes regions of scrub and perennial herbs.

The amazing Conehead Mantis prefers such regions because of its feeding habits. Like its many relatives, it evolved purely as a carnivore, and acting as an ambush predator. This powerful and efficient hunter eats a vast variety of small insects native to the same habitat.

In turn, the powerful hunter falls prey to other, larger predators. These vary according to its particular region, of course. Overall, however, these mainly include such animals as snakes, frogs, lizards, and a wide variety of avian species sharing its region.

Red Veined Darter

Red Veined Darter Facts

• Next up in this compilation of 5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal comes the brilliantly-hued invertebrate known as the Red Veined Darter.
• The highly descriptive, as well as accurate, term used herein serves as one of the common names for a striking variety of dragonfly. Some people also know this wonder of nature by yet another common name, choosing to call it simply the nomad.
• The name by which most professional researchers know it, however, remains the somewhat tongue-twisting term of Sympetrum fonscolombii. By either of these names, though, it represents a truly fascinating species of arthropod.
• Its first scientific recognition as a separate, distinct species occurred in the year 1840. At that time, the renowned Belgian entomologist, Edmond de Selys Longchamps named it in honor of another entomologist, Étienne of Fonscolombe.
• For the moment, the population numbers of the amazing Red Veined Darter appear to be both sufficient and stable. As a result, the IUCN currently lists the fabulous species as Least Concern, on the organization’s Red List of Threatened Species.
• Nevertheless, the incredible creature must be considered to be facing at least potential threats to its continued existence. While habitat loss does not appear to pose a danger at this time, the very real threat of climate change could potentially endanger it.

Red Veined Darter Physical Description

The beautiful form of dragonfly known as the Red Veined Darter evolved a remarkably distinctive physical appearance. That appearance varies between individuals, however, given the fact that the fascinating species displays a moderate degree of sexual dimorphism.

In the case of this particular arthropod, that characteristic manifests itself in the coloring, specifically of the abdomen. In the case of the female, this part of the body presents as yellow in color, while in the male, the predominant color remains a bright, vivid red.

Otherwise, the two genders appear virtually indistinguishable from each other. The majority of the rest of the body has a mostly black color, although occasional spots of yellow. The wings also show yellow veins for females, and red for the males.

The legs of most specimens of the amazing Red Veined Darter also have their own unique brand of beauty, setting them apart from similar insects. These generally present as mainly black in color, with some random areas of yellow, much like the body. 

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Odonata
• Family: Libellulidae
• Genus: Sympetrum
• Species: S. fonscolombii

Red Veined Darter Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The breathtaking Red Veined Darter actually inhabits a comparatively broad swathe of the world for such a creature. Surprisingly, this includes much of central and southern Europe. This zone of habitation also extends through most of the Mediterranean islands.

Yet this somewhat astonishingly successful invertebrate doesn’t stop there. The distinctive insect also appears in reasonable numbers in Africa, the Middle East and south-western Asia, including the countries of India, Sri Lanka, and Mongolia, just to name a few.

It also displays an ability to adapt to different habitats, or to choose to migrate distances. In Europe, it appears in the southern areas, but in some years migrates northward and reaches as far north as Belgium, Sweden, Finland, Poland and northern England.

This versatility arises from the innate ability of the Red Veined Darter to thrive in a comparatively wide range of habitat types. These include such regions as around various lakes, ponds, marshes, and rivers. It also commonly reappears in dry areas after it rains.

Like others of its kind, this wonder of evolution feeds as an aggressive carnivore, and consumes a wide variety of small insects. It’s also quite territorial by nature, with males frequently observed sitting on an exposed perch, watching over its area.

Death’s-head Hawkmoth

Death’s-head Hawkmoth Facts

• Appearing in the third slot in this listing of 5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal, the astounding Death’s-head Hawkmoth does so only due to random selection.
• Distinctively, the eye-catching common name for this amazing Lepidoptera remains that of the one we’ve used here. Perhaps most notably, though, the term actually serves as the common name for a total of three species within the genus Acherontia.
• The distinctiveness of these three forms, however, does not simply stop there. That’s because, in addition to the astonishing obvious physical trait, other facts also set it apart from most other types of moths. These, in fact, are fascinating in their own right.
• First of all, the astonishing and highly unusual Death’s-head Hawkmoth evolved the ability to emit a high-pitched chirp. This action only occurs, though, when the arthropod feels either threatened or irritated. Few insects can make sounds internally.
• Secondly, all three varieties also evolved as relatively rapid fliers. In point of fact, one of them, the Acherontia atropis, constitutes the fastest known moth on earth. That’s because individuals of that species can reach speeds of up to 30 mph (48 kph).
• Unfortunately, the IUCN, does not currently have a listing for any of the three varieties. That’s surprising, given the fact that each of them qualifies as quite rare. Like many creatures, it obviously faces threats such as climate change and habitat loss.

Death’s-head Hawkmoth Physical Description

Not surprisingly, physical differences naturally exist between the different types of Death’s-head Hawkmoth. All three types, however, also as is to be expected, remain quite similar in terms of appearance. Many general descriptions therefore apply to them all.

It must be pointed out, though, that measured adult wingspan varies significantly, even within the same gender and species. While not unknown, this trait definitely qualifies as uncommon. Due to this fact, adults range in width of wings from 2 – 8 in (5 – 20 cm).

In addition, like the majority of Lepidoptera, this marvel of Nature displays a moderate degree of sexual dimorphism. As a result of this physiological trait, in its case, females generally develop slightly larger than the males. These also tend to be bulkier in shape.

The body of the magnificent Death’s-head Hawkmoth also displays a comparatively thick, bullet-shaped form. The two forewings further develop long and narrow. Yet the hindwings, however, appear much shorter, like most related forms of invertebrate.

Its coloring also varies, quite understandably. But these typically consist of combinations of shades of brown, black, gray, and yellow. The astounding presence of a human skull-like marking on the back of the thorax, however, represents its most memorable feature.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Lepidoptera
• Family: Sphingidae
• Genus: Acherontia

Death’s-head Hawkmoth Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The species bearing the common name of Death’s-head Hawkmoth also have different habitat ranges. That alone sets them apart from many of their peers. One appears in parts of Europe. The other two members of the genus, however, live in scattered sections of Asia.

All forms of this amazing insect, furthermore, seem to be highly adaptable to varying habitats. As a general rule, though, the insect appears in regions with substantial foliage. This most commonly includes temperate forests, as well as parks, and even home gardens.

The larval form of the Death’s-head Hawkmoth stays on or near a single host plant. These it feeds on voraciously. It shows no preference for type of host. The adults show a preference for honey, in addition to fruit. As a result, adults often raid the hives of honeybees.

Its own natural predators, meanwhile, consist of the same as other moths. These mainly consist of the various birds found in its region. Many bats also love to feed on it, though. Intriguingly, the chirping ability it evolved serves the intended purpose of deterring these.

Violet Carpenter Bee

Violet Carpenter Bee Facts

• The next species making its appearance in this article about 5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal is the dazzling animal known as the Violet Carpenter Bee.
• Notably, this wholly appropriate term serves as the common name for a particular species of bee that truly stands out visually. However, this fabulous invertebrate also goes by the hard to pronounce scientific name of the Xylocopa violacea.
• Regardless of the name one uses for it, though, the magnificent insect merits attention for much more than simply its beauty. Along with its obvious and distinctive appearance, this animal also stands out from related species for its physical size.
• Impressively, the lovely insect also ranks as one of the largest bees in its part of the world. Thankfully, it also holds yet another distinction. That’s the simple fact that the insect remains extremely docile, and attacks only if directly threatened.
• Quite fortunately, the fabulous Violet Carpenter Bee also stands out from other bees in one more important manner. In point of fact, unlike many related species, its numbers appear to be holding relatively steady, at least for the moment.
• The IUCN therefore currently has no listing for the insect on the organization’s Red List of Threatened Species. Nonetheless, it must be considered to be at potential risk. This mainly occurs due to the ongoing effects of climate change.

Violet Carpenter Bee Physical Description

The visually magnificent Violet Carpenter Bee truly draws the eye of the observer, given its incredible appearance. However, this remarkably lovely arthropod achieves this with uniquely. It does so with a special combination of color and size.

Like a great many insects, including related species, it also displays one more physical attribute of interest. That’s true since it possesses the physiological trait of sexual dimorphism. This remains a highly common trait throughout Nature.

Not only that, but mature adults of both genders attain an average body length measuring 1.2 in (3 cm). That’s a remarkably impressive measurement for a bee. In addition, the typical wingspan achieved by both sexes measures roughly 2 in (5 cm).

The bodies of both the males and females also have the same general shape. That holds true due to the fact that both genders display a thick, black colored form. The majority of the remarkable body of the bee appears covered in small hairs.

The female Violet Carpenter Bee also stands out for yet more reasons. In this instance, that refers to the fact that she physically distinguishes herself from the male in regards to a stinger. She develops one, while the male of the species does not.

However, it’s the delicate-seeming wings themselves that garner most of the attention this arthropod receives. That’s true since these sensitive parts of its body display an astonishing violet and blue color. In addition, these also possesses an iridescent quality.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Hymenoptera
• Family: Apidae
• Genus: Xylocopa
• Species: X. violacea

Violet Carpenter Bee Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The remarkably stunning member of the Order of Hymenoptera known as the Violet Carpenter Bee impresses researchers in yet another way. That occurs given the fact that the wondrous arthropod evolved as native to a comparatively broad range.

In point of fact, this territory covers parts of two separate continents. This represents one more statistic about the creature that distinguishes it. To be more precise, the beautiful invertebrate inhabits portions of both the continents of Asia and Europe.

Even within that range, however, this marvelous and relatively large variety of bee has very specific preferences for its habitat. That holds true because this fascinating insect most commonly appears in regions consisting of wooded areas.

Most commonly this habitat choice consists of forests. But, it can even include such surprising places as parks. Individuals further inhabit a great range of altitudes. Quite amazingly, individuals have been seen at elevations of as much as 5,249 ft ( 1,600 m).

Its lifestyle remains consistent with the greatest percentage of its relatives. Just like other types of carpenter bee, the Violet Carpenter Bee lives a primarily solitary life. In fact, members of this intriguing species only come together to mate.

Also, individuals of both genders bore tunnels into soft wood with their powerful mandibles. After mating, the female lays her eggs in chambers she constructs. Both genders feed on large quantities of pollen and nectar taken from various flora.

Mediterranean Mantis

Mediterranean Mantis Facts

• Closing out this compendium of these 5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal is the remarkable creation of Nature named the Mediterranean Mantis.
• This fabulous creation of Nature and evolution most frequently goes by the informative common name due to its native range. The insect also has a less often used general name, though. That’s the similar, but less accurate, term of the iris mantis.
• Scientific professionals, such as researchers, however, typically refer to it by yet another name. That’s because they generally use its technical name when discussing it. The intriguing Arthropod bears the comparatively simple technical name of the Iris oratoria.
• It further shares a distinction in that regard with numerous other species. That’s due to the fact that the eminent Swedish zoologist, Carl Linnaeus, made the first official acknowledgement of it as a separate and distinct species. This he did in the year 1758.
• Regardless of which name one chooses to employ, however, it remains a fascinating creature. Sadly, though, it’s now become regarded as as invasive species insome parts of the world. This occurs due to its expansion into non-native regions by man’s actions.
• Even without this controversial expansion of its range, the Mediterranean Mantis seems to be maintaining a population base that’s both sizeable and sufficient. The IUCN, therefore, lists it as Least Concern. This status appears on the organization’s Red List.
• The insect nevertheless faces several potential threats to its continued survival. In this, though, it follows countless other species. Its greatest threats clearly include habitat loss due to the expansion of man, and the ongoing effects of climate change.

Mediterranean Mantis Physical Description

In general overall terms, the marvelous Mediterranean Mantis achieves the same general body shape and appearance as other mantids. That’s not to say, though, that the species lacks any defining physical characteristics. It stands out from others in its own way.

That distinction doesn’t occur in terms of physical size, however. That’s true since it ranks as a roughly average-sized member of its Order. It also displays the physiological trait of sexual dimorphism, like its relatives. In its case, however, this trademark remains quite minor.

The gender-based difference mainly appears in the size of the abdomen of the genders. More specifically, that of the female tends to be slightly larger. The difference further becomes more pronounced as the individual ages. Otherwise, they appear roughly identical.

Individual specimens achieve an average body length of approximately 2.6 in (6.5 cm). Although exceptional individuals naturally occur, even these rarely exceed this by much. Like most mantids, its body develops as highly elongated, and colors adapt as camouflage.

When young, most examples of the Mediterranean Mantis also display an overall pale shade. As these mature, though, this pattern changes to a primary background of grass-like green. In yet another minor gender-based difference, the wings of the female remain short.

But this marvel of Nature clearly distinguishes itself from others of its kind, especially those sharing its range, in one quite spectacular manner. When unfurled, the hindwings display a startling pattern. That’s the presence of a violet-brown eyespot on each of them.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Mantodea
• Family: Eremiaphilidae
• Genus: Iris
• Species: I. oratoria

Mediterranean Mantis Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Fortunately, both for the Mediterranean Mantis itself, and those of us who appreciate Nature, the Arthropod possesses a comparatively extensive natural range. That range, has, however, been indirectly further extended, and significantly so, by the actions of man.

The fascinating insect evolved originally as native to most of the continent of Europe. That area covers all of the southern portion of the continent, and extends to cover all but the most northerly sections. It does seem to be more common in the south, though.

The very name of the invertebrate stems from the portion of Europe in which the first studies of it occurred. That’s because those earliest endeavors to understand it took place in the region of the Mediterranean Sea. This include such locations as Greece and Italy.

From there, however, man spread it to other parts of the world. This includes portions of Asia, the Middle East, and the United States, in North America. In all areas, though, it’s highly versatile in its habitat choice. It appears wherever sufficient vegetation occurs.

That holds true due to its nature. That’s because, like other mantises, it evolved as a pure carnivore. The beautiful Mediterranean Mantis typically feeds as a highly efficient ambush predator. It also consumes virtually any prey of small enough size for it to handle.

Its own predators, meanwhile, are few. These mostly consist of various species of birds. When threatened, though, it displays an evolved response. It faces the threat, rears up, and then raises and waves its forelegs threateningly. It also displays the large eyespots.

5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal

We hope that each of you enjoyed reading, and hopefully learning from, this article we’ve written about these 5 Pleasing Insects of Portugal. It’s also our hope that doing so has left you with either a new or renewed appreciation for such wonders of Nature.

Unfortunately, however, many of their kindred around the world now find themselves facing strong threats to their continued existence as a species. Many of those dangers, in fact, stem from the actions of mankind. We must do all we can to protect and preserve them all.

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