Diplacodes lefebvrei - Black Percher (Purple Darter)

Common near large natural and man-made water bodies, e.g. Al Warsan Lakes (formerly Wimpey Pits) in Dubai; Palm Sports Resort pond (formerly Al Maqam Golf Course) in Al Ain. Also at freshwater springs within Dhayah salt marsh, Ras al Khaimah.

Often perches in obelisk position (i.e., with the abdomen held relatively erect).
A small species that defers to others.

In the UAE both the black male and pale female can be confused with Selysiothemis nigra - Black Pennant (Desert Darter).
Distinguishing features of D. lefebvrei are:
- long, often dark-coloured pterostigma
- small orange patch at base of hindwing
- wing venation is distinct, with small cells
- dark males have a dark face (frons)
- white claspers contrast with black abdomen in male

Photos:

- closeup of pterostigma

Small orange patch at base of hindwing

- closeup of wing venation

- closeup of dark face of male

- closeup of male claspers