Amani flatwing  (Amanipodagrion gilliesi)

Biology

Dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata) start their life as aquatic larvae or nymphs, passing through a series of developmental stages or ‘stadia’, undergoing several moults as they grow. This larval period can last anything between three months and ten years, depending upon the species. Before the final moult (emergence), metamorphosis occurs in which the larvae transform into the adult form. After emergence, adults undergo a pre-reproductive phase known as the maturation period, and this is when individuals normally develop their full adult colour (4). Emergence in the Amani flatwing is thought to occur in October and November, and the main reproductive season between December and April (3). Dragonflies and damselflies often exhibit fierce competition between males for access to reproductive females (4).

Odonata usually feed on flying insects and are generalised, opportunistic feeders, often congregating around abundant prey sources such as swarms of termites or near beehives (4).

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