Synthemis serendipita Winstanley, 1984

(Fig. 74)

Synthemis serendipita Winstanley, 1984b: 9.

Distribution (Fig. 75). Endemic to Grande Terre. Some females reach a 100 mm wingspan. The species is known only from seven locations in the southern half of the island, and in particular the mountains east of Nouméa.

Habitat. Creeks and streams in mountain forest.

Biology and behaviour. A few exuviae were found on the banks of creeks up to a metre above the water level. This species is not observed before noon at oviposition sites. Because they fly late at night, Davies (2002) compared its behavior with the crepuscular habits of Gynacantha. As in S. miranda, which is often found with S. serendipita, males are territorial. However, females appear to be more selective in their choice of oviposition sites. The males fly quietly over pools until the arrival of females. Mating (three observations) occurs in flight for less than a minute. The female lays her eggs alone (four observations) on rocks covered by a thin layer of water (2–3 mm).

Status. We observed several large S. serendipita populations at the sites that we visited. However, due to the small number of localities from which it is known, we rank it as EN.

Comments. At the creek near the Sanatorium at the Col de la Pirogue, other Synthemis species visit the oviposition sites throughout the day. In the early morning, S. fenella is the first species to arrive at around 07:30 h, then around 10:00–11:00 h this species is replaced by S. miranda. At 12:00–12:30 h, the first males of S. serendipita appear, driving off males of S. miranda.