The problem of the Lestes pallidus group (Zygoptera: Lestidae)

The three related species of Lestes, pallidus Rambur, 1842, ochraceus Selys, 1862, and ictericus Gerstacker, 1869, were inadequately described from single specimens, all of which lacked most of the abdomen, and the appendages most commonly used in separating species. Attempts by later authors to distinguish them by colour and pattern have only led to confusion. The species have now been reconsidered in the light of field observations on colour changes during maturation, and distinguishing characters looked for in the shape and venation of the wings. The original type-specimens have been reexamined in hopes of establishing with which of the species occurring in the field they correspond.