Phanogomphus cavillaris

This photo shows the straight line between the eyes, rather than a curved and lobed one.

Overall, the sandhill clubtail has a very similar coloration to most other phanogomphids, a combination of yellow and dark patterning. The general patterning, as well as habitat preference, is nearly identical to the cypress clubtail (P. minutus). P. cavillaris has a straight occiput line (the line in between the eyes near the back of the head) and a dark band across the face, whereas P. minutus has a slightly curved occiput line that is lobed on the sides and an entirely pale yellowish face.[1] While there are other morphological and microanatomical differences between the two, the shape of the occiput line is most useful in the field.[1]

There are two subspecies of sandhill clubtail, both of which are found in Southeastern North America.

1. Phanogomphus cavillaris cavillaris - The type subspecies. Found in Peninsular Florida north of Lake Okeechobee[1] as well as one slightly isolated population in West Palm Beach.[2] Roughly the same shade of yellow throughout the body and the color on the tip of the abdomen being a dull yellowish or brownish color.
2. Phanogomphus cavillaris brimleyi - Brimley's clubtail - Found in Florida Panhandle, Southern Alabama, as well as an extremely isolated population in Bladen County, North Carolina.[1] Yellow on the tail much brighter and more noticeable than on the rest of the body.