Effect of body size and zebra mussel attachment on exuviae emergence-site selection in five dragonfly species (Hagenius brevistylus, Didymops transvera, Macromia illinoiensis, Dromogomphus spinosus, Epitheca)

Abstract

Emergence-site selection in dragonflies is an important factor for their survival during metamorphosis because of possible predation and other factors that may end the dragonfly life cycle during this vulnerable process. This study examined the emergence-site selection of exuviae in five dragonfly species from a lake in Northern Michigan to identify whether or not body size or presence of zebra mussels has a significant impact on site selection. We found that as length increased in proportion to body area, dragonflies were able to travel farther away from the shore. Individual species showed differing trends, when it came to body size relating to distance travelled from the shore. Understanding trends in emergence-site selection is important to understanding how dragonfly larvae have adapted to their individual environments in order to increase their chances of surviving to adulthood.