Behavioural interactions and use of feeding areas by nymphs of Coenagrion resolutum (Coenagrionidae: Odonata)

Abstract

Behaviour of Coenagrion resolutum nymphs was studied in the laboratory. Based on characteristics of the behaviour, analysis of the effects of inter-nymph distance on behaviour, and association analysis between behaviours, some of the observed behaviours were classified as grooming, feeding/aggression, retreat, or defense.In an experiment on use of space, some nymphs excluded others from feeding areas through aggressive interactions. Frequency of interactions won by those nymphs seen most often at the feeding site was not associated with location of interactions. However, use of the feeding area was positively associated with dominance status. Exclusion of some nymphs is interpreted as a combination of dominance and limited movement rather than a territorial system.