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10 Fun Facts About The Dragonflies

It’s common to encounter beautiful insects called dragonflies next to bodies of water. One of the most amazing and lovely insects in nature are dragonflies. Dragonflies are colorful and behave in a peculiar way.

People all throughout the world have been captivated by them. Dragonflies have cultural importance in certain nations. Depending on the culture, they might be a symbol of luck or friendliness. Let’s have a look at 10 fun facts about dragonflies that you might have not  known.

1. Dragonflies are ancient insects

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There have been dragonflies on this world for more than 300 million years. As a result, they rank among the planet’s oldest insect species. They have endured numerous mass extinctions. They have developed into the most effective hunters in the insect kingdom over time.

Over the centuries, dragonflies have been incredibly successful at adjusting to their shifting habitats. They have settled in a variety of settings. Some of the environments range from salty marshes and even deserts to freshwater lakes and rivers.

2. Dragonflies have excellent vision

Of all insects, dragonflies have some of the sharpest vision. They have compound eyes, which are made up of many little lenses. They can see practically everything thanks to this. Dragonflies have extremely sensitive compound eyes. Even minute motions and alterations in their environment can be picked up by them. Even ultraviolet light is visible to them. They can navigate and hunt with the aid of this.

3. Dragonflies are fast flyers

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Flying dragonflies can fly very quickly. Several species can fly at speeds of more than 50 km/h. They have the ability to hover in midair, fly backward, and perform swift turns. Many modifications enable dragonflies to attain their astonishing speed and agility. Their wings, for instance, are extremely specialized. The intricate vein patterns and cross-veins on the wings provide them strength. They prevent dragonflies from twisting or buckling during flight.

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4. Dragonflies have a unique hunting technique

Dragonflies are skilled predators. They catch their prey on the wing by moving quickly and using their keen vision. Dragonflies catch their prey midair and consume it while still in flight.

Dragonfly larvae feed on prey that live in the water. They have modified jaws for this purpose. Moreover, they have a long, extended lower lip that they can utilize to ensnare their victim. The labium can impale the prey and bring it back into the nymph’s eager jaws by projecting out like a harpoon.

5. Dragonflies have a long lifespan

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Compared to other insects, dragonflies have a relatively long lifespan. Some species can live up to several years. The larval stage lasts up to two years before dragonflies emerge as adults. In many species, the adults live for just a few weeks or months. During this time, they mate and lay eggs. Some species, such as the green darner (Anax junius), can live for up to six months as adults. Others such as the banded demoiselle (Calopteryx splendens) may live for only a few weeks.

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6. Dragonflies are found all over the world

Except for Antarctica, every continent has dragonflies. Worldwide, more than 5,000 distinct species of dragonflies have been recognized. They can be found in a variety of settings, including saltwater marshes, deserts, and freshwater ponds and streams.

Various dragonfly species have adapted to various environments and climatic conditions. Temperature, moisture, and the availability of food are only a few examples of the variables that might affect their dispersion patterns.

7. Dragonflies are important predators

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In their habitats, dragonflies play a vital role as predators. They control the numbers of other insects like flies and mosquitoes. The larvae and adults of dragonflies are both avid hunters. They feed on many different kinds of insects and other small animals. Territorial behavior is also common in dragonflies. They frequently defend their hunting areas from intruders and other dragonflies. They are also a crucial source of food for fish.

8. Dragonflies have a unique mating ritual

Dragonflies have a unique mating ritual. It involves the male and female flying in tandem with the male grasping onto the female’s thorax with his legs. The pair will then fly together in this position as the male transfers his sperm to the female.

After mating, the female dragonfly will search for a suitable body of water in which to lay her eggs. She will fly low over the water’s surface, dipping her abdomen into the water to release her eggs. Depending on the species, the female may lay her eggs in a specific pattern. The eggs are attached to plants or other objects in the water.

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9. Dragonflies have a fascinating life cycle

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Dragonflies undergo a fascinating metamorphosis. The larval stage lives underwater and the adult stage lives on land. The dragonfly larvae live underwater and feed on small insects, fish, and other aquatic creatures. They are equipped with specialized jaws that allow them to catch and consume their prey. The larval stage can last up to two years. The adult stage lasts only a few weeks or months. 

10. Dragonflies have cultural significance

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Several cultures throughout the world attach cultural significance to dragonflies. They stand for strength and courage in Japan. They are linked to change and transformation in native American cultures. Dragonflies are a representation of bravery and tenacity in Japan. They are frequently portrayed in Japanese literature and art, and traditional Japanese designs frequently feature their likeness.

Dragonflies were long thought to be witches or bad spirits in disguise throughout Europe. They were frequently portrayed as representations of peril or death. It was believed that their presence would be unlucky. Dragonflies are often linked to water and the life-giving river in African civilizations.

Dragonflies are incredibly amazing insects that have fascinated people for generations. There is no denying that dragonflies are an enthralling and significant component of our natural world due to their distinctive appearance and behavior as well as their significant function in many ecosystems. We can appreciate the complexity and beauty of the natural world around us better if we learn more about these amazing insects.

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