Dragonflies Are Not What You Think

Dragonfly nymphs possess an extendable prehensile labium called “the mask”—a spring-loaded catapult jaw mechanism enabling them to dominate freshwater habitats as top predators despite being juvenile forms.

Among 7,000 dragonfly species globally, nymphs categorize into four main types based on lifestyle and movement: claspers, sprawlers, burrowers, and climbers. Each type represents distinct morphological and behavioral adaptations.

Dragonfly nymphs possess a heavily engineered rectal opening serving dual purposes: jet propulsion locomotion and respiration through internal gills.

Dragonfly nymphs employ a hydraulic jet propulsion system enabling incredibly fast underwater movement through forceful water expulsion from their rectal chamber.

Adult dragonflies emerge from nymphs through a dramatic transformation process differing from typical insect pupation, occurring mostly at night before maiden flights at dawn.