Hey Lykkers! Dragonflies are some of the most fascinating insects in the natural world.

Let’s dive into the journey of a dragonfly, from egg, and learn about the stages that define their extraordinary life cycle!

1. The Beginning: Laying Eggs

The life cycle of a dragonfly begins in water, as most species lay their eggs in or near aquatic environments like ponds, lakes, or slow-moving rivers. After mating, female dragonflies use their ovipositor (an egg-laying) to deposit their eggs either directly into the water or on plants and debris near the water's edge. Some species even lay their eggs in the moist mud of riverbanks or ponds.

2. Aquatic Life: The Nymph Stage

Dragonfly nymphs look nothing like their counterparts. They have an elongated, stocky body with a mask-like lower jaw called a labium, which is a highly specialized hunting tool. The labium extends quickly to capture prey, making dragonfly nymphs efficient predators. They feed on a wide variety of aquatic organisms, including small fish, tadpoles, and other insects.

3. Molting: Preparing for Transformation

As dragonfly nymphs grow and develop, they molt numerous times, with some species molting up to 12 times. With each molt, the nymph's body grows larger, and certain features like wing pads become more prominent.

4. The Emergence: Becoming an Older Dragonfly

Once the nymph has found a safe spot, it begins the emergence process. The nymph’s skin splits down the back, and the older dragonfly slowly pulls itself free. This part of the transformation can take several hours, and the dragonfly is vulnerable to predators during this time.

5. Life of Dragonflies: Master of the Air

Older dragonflies are among the most skilled flyers in the insect world. With their four independently moving wings, they can hover, fly backward, and change direction at incredible speeds. This agility makes them highly effective hunters, capable of catching other flying insects like mosquitoes, flies, and moths mid-air.

Dragonflies have large, compound eyes that give them nearly 360-degree vision, making it easy to spot prey and avoid predators. Their diet consists mainly of other insects, which they catch with their legs and consume while flying.

The life cycle of a dragonfly is a fascinating journey from egg, marked by significant transformations. These incredible insects are not only beautiful but also vital to the environment, reminding us of the delicate balance of life in nature!

From Nymph to Wings: The Dragonfly Life Cycle | Asia’s Weirdest | National Geographic Wild UK

The video by National Geographic UK