First records of Onychogomphus forcipatus unguiculatus (Van der Lynden, 1823) in the lower section of the Manzanares River (Getafe, Community of Madrid)

Abstract

The Community of Madrid, despite its diversity of aquatic habitats, has been little studied in terms of odonates. In this context, the finding of several specimens of Onychogomphus forcipatus unguiculatus in the lower reach of the Manzanares River, within the municipality of Getafe, is particularly noteworthy. This subspecies, sensitive to environmental degradation, typically inhabits well-preserved rivers, which contrasts with the expected quality of the riverbed near urban areas. The observations were made during regular sampling as part of ongoing odonate monitoring efforts in Getafe and were thoroughly documented, including reproductive behaviors. This river reach shows signs of ecological alteration due to constant flows from wastewater treatment plants, which have modified the traditional river dynamics. Therefore, these records not only extend the known regional range of the species but also suggest a positive change in the biological quality of the river in this area.