In Tagalog, a dragonfly is called tutubi.
Dragonflies are fast‑flying insects commonly found near rivers, ponds, farms, and gardens across the Philippines. They play an important role in nature by helping control mosquito and small insect populations.
This guide includes vocabulary words related to dragonflies, example sentences, and interesting facts about dragonfly species found in the Philippines.
Dragonfly Vocabulary Words in Tagalog
Here are common Tagalog words connected to dragonflies and their environment:
- Tutubi – dragonfly
- Insekto – insect
- Hayop – animal
- Halaman – plant
- Mabilis – fast
- Lumilipad – flying
- Pakpak – wing
- Mga mata – eyes
- Bukid – farm
- Hayop na walang buto – invertebrate
These words help describe dragonflies, their behavior, and their natural habitats.
Example Sentences Using “Dragonfly” in Tagalog
Here are simple Tagalog sentences to help you practice:
- Ang mga tutubi ay may dalawang pares ng mga pakpak.
Dragonflies have two pairs of wings. - May mga tutubi na nangingitlog ng kulay rosas na mga itlog sa mga sanga ng mga halaman sa tabi ng ilog.
Some dragonflies lay pink eggs on plant stems by the river. - Ang tutubi ay nakakalipad ng matulin.
A dragonfly can fly very fast. - Ang kitikiti ng tutubi ay kumakain ng maliliit na mga bagay na nabubuhay sa tubig.
A dragonfly larva eats small living things in the water. - Ang tutubi ay kinakain lamang ang mga pagkain na kanyang nahuhuli habang lumilipad.
A dragonfly eats only the food it catches while flying. - Ang tutubi ay nanghuhuli ng kanyang pagkain sa pamamagitan ng pagsunggab gamit ang kanyang mga paa.
A dragonfly catches food by grabbing it with its feet. - May mga tutubi na nabubuhay lamang sa loob ng isang linggo.
Some dragonflies only live up to a week. - May mga tutubing nabubuhay ng hanggang sa isang taon.
Some dragonflies can live up to a year. - Ang ulo ng isang tutubi ay binubuo ng isang pares ng naglalakihang mga mata.
The head of a dragonfly is made up of one pair of big eyes. - Ang tutubi ay may napakapalitong katawan.
A dragonfly has a very thin body.
Dragonflies in the Philippines
The Philippines has a rich diversity of Odonata—the group that includes dragonflies and damselflies. Many species are native or even endemic to the islands.
Local Names
- Tutubi – dragonfly
- Tutubing karayom – damselfly (needle dragonfly)
Common Dragonfly Species in the Philippines
Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens)
- One of the most widespread dragonflies
- Often seen in large swarms
Red‑winged Dragonfly (Neurothemis terminata)
- Males are bright red
- Females are yellowish
- Common in open fields and farms
Crimson‑tailed Marsh Hawk (Orthetrum pruinosum)
- Frequently seen near water and rice fields
Variegated Green Skimmer (Orthetrum sabina)
- Found in wetlands and grassy areas
Endemic Species
- Philippine Jewel Damselfly (Rhinocypha colorata)
- Various Risiocnemis damselflies
These species are found only in the Philippines.
Habitats & Ecological Role
Dragonflies thrive in:
- Forests
- Rivers and streams
- Rice fields and farms
- Wetlands
- Urban gardens
They are important pest controllers, feeding on mosquitoes, flies, and other small insects.
Cultural Significance
In some parts of the southern Philippines, dragonfly larvae—called kulibpos—are traditionally collected as food and believed to provide energy.
Important Note
The term “Philippine Forest Dragon” sometimes appears online, but this refers to a flying lizard (Draco mindanensis), not a dragonfly.
Conclusion
Learning how to say dragonfly in Tagalog helps you describe insects, nature, and everyday scenes in Filipino environments. Dragonflies are fascinating creatures—fast, graceful, and essential to the ecosystem.