Mothers go to great lengths to protect their young. The degree to which they care ranges a lot, even within the species (humans are a great example). Dragonflies lay thousands of eggs, a small percentage of which reach the adult stage. However, some dragonflies care for their eggs very much.
I’ve recently observed a couple Argia moesta, male and female, who were laying eggs in a not so quiet river. The female found a patch of vegetation, and was attaching her eggs to the stem. The male kept her under tight control – holding her by the neck. What made this couple different from others of their species is their dedication. I’ve witnessed the female descend deeper and deeper along the stem, until she was completely under water. The male followed her, until at one point he was completely submerged as well. They stayed under water for several minutes, until they finally emerged and moved on to the next patch of grass.
This strategy will probably not help their larvae survive, as most of them will get eaten, but it does provide the best start for their young.
Patrick Goossens
Hi,
I witnessed a simular behaviour with Erythromma viridulum. I have seen one female that was 20 minutes under water. Calopteryx splendens does the same. They can survive because of the tiny airbubbles on their skin when yhey submerge the water.
Greetings
Patrick
PS Love youre website!