Status and conservation of Coenagrion mercuriale in North Rhine-Westphalia

Göcking C., Hübner T. & Röhr, K.. 2010. Status and conservation of Coenagrion mercuriale in North Rhine-Westphalia. Brachytron 12 (1/2): 11-17. The Southern Damselfly (Coenagrion mercuriale) occurs in North Rhine- Westphalia (NRW) in small, sunny, alkaline meadow brooks and ditches poor in detritus, with submerged and emergent vegetation. A herb-rich vegetation is present on the banks. To our present knowledge, there are about twelve populations in NRW; two are discussed here in detail. In order to protect the species, conservation measures concerning the management of the water bodies are suggested.