Dragonfly larvae, also known as nymphs, are aquatic immature stages of dragonflies, residing in freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, and streams. These creatures spend a significant portion of their lives underwater, often for months or even years, before transforming into winged adults. During this aquatic phase, dragonfly nymphs serve as a food source for a variety of other organisms, making them an integral part of the freshwater food web. Their soft bodies and relatively slow movement make them vulnerable to predation from numerous aquatic and semi-aquatic animals.
Predators Within the Water
Fish are significant predators of dragonfly larvae. Common freshwater species like sunfish (bluegill, pumpkinseed), bass, and trout regularly consume these nymphs. Fish often ambush larvae from hiding spots among aquatic vegetation or actively forage for them along the bottom, using keen eyesight to detect movement. Their predation can influence nymph population dynamics.
Other aquatic insects also prey on dragonfly larvae. Larger predatory insects, such as diving beetle larvae and adults, actively pursue and capture nymphs, often using powerful mandibles. Various true bugs, including giant water bugs and backswimmers, also prey on larvae, typically by piercing their bodies and sucking out fluids.
Amphibians also prey on dragonfly larvae. Frogs, especially younger individuals or larger tadpoles, may consume nymphs in shallow waters. Salamanders, both larval and adult, also eat dragonfly larvae. These amphibians lie in wait or slowly stalk prey among submerged plants and debris, capturing nymphs when within striking distance.
Predators From Above and Ashore
Birds prey on dragonfly larvae, especially in shallower waters or during nymph emergence. Kingfishers snatch larvae from the water’s surface or just beneath it. Wading birds like herons and egrets forage in shallow areas, spearing or grabbing nymphs from the substrate. Ducks, particularly dabbling species, also consume nymphs while sifting through bottom sediments or vegetation.
Small mammals in riparian zones also consume dragonfly larvae. Shrews, raccoons, and otters, which forage along pond and stream edges, encounter and feed on nymphs. While not a primary food source, these opportunistic predators consume larvae if easily accessible, especially during low water or when nymphs move closer to shore.
Certain invertebrates near the water’s edge also prey on dragonfly nymphs, particularly during their vulnerable emergence phase. Larger spiders, especially those building webs close to water or hunting near banks, capture nymphs as they crawl out to molt into adults. These spiders capitalize on the nymphs’ temporary exposure and immobility during this transition.