Among the 15 odonate families recorded in Peninsular Malaysia, Gomphidae is the second largest family with 35 species. Members of Gomphidae are normally large with yellow/green strips on thorax and abdomen, and of course the separated-eye character is a key to identify this family. Actually, most gomphids are residents of forest, and it is not easy to spot them eventhough one visits to forest. However, Ictinogomphus decoratus (a gomphid) is totally different from the other gomphids. This gomphid species can be easily spotted at disturbed areas. It is the most common gomphid species in Peninsular Malaysia. Ictinogomphus decoratus likes to hang around ponds, likes, slow flowing rivers/streams. It is quite comfortable with muddy water. It pearches frequently on strong twigs and plants by water edge or in the middle of the water body. The female has similar marking as the male, but is less commonly seen at the water body.
