odonata

dragonflies and damselflies belong to the order odonata.

the odonata species are known for their brilliant colors.

odonata larvae are aquatic predators in freshwater ecosystems.

many odonata species live near freshwater habitats.

the odonata order has existed for over 300 million years.

male odonata have distinctive secondary genitalia for sperm storage.

odonata have remarkable flight capabilities and can hover in place.

some odonata species migrate long distances across continents.

the compound eyes of odonata provide nearly 360-degree vision.

odonata are important bioindicators of water quality in wetlands.

female odonata lay eggs on floating vegetation near water.

the name odonata derives from greek words meaning tooth.