Life-history study of libellula incesta with emphasis on egg development as influenced by controlled temperature

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Annette Rogers Pittman (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Paul Lutz

Abstract: A field and laboratory study was carried out with Libellula incesta to investigate the effects of controlled temperature and photoperiod on egg development and to determine various aspects of the life cycle. Eggs collected from mating females were subjected to two photoperiods (11 and 14 hours) at each of six different temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40°C). Libellula incesta eggs were not effected by difference in photoperiods, but total development time decreased with increases in temperature. Information concerning the life-history was obtained by sampling the larval population and field observation throughout the year. It was established that the eggs of Libellula incesta experienced direct development in about one to two weeks. In addition it was found that Libellula incesta is a univoltine summer species which overwinters in one of four instars prior to the final. Emergence began in mid-May and individuals flew until mid-October. Throughout this flight season the reproductive activity was observed. Males established territories in which they interacted with other males and mated with females. The females frequented the water only to mate and to exophytically oviposit large quantities of eggs.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 1971
Subjects
Libellulidae $x Larvae
Dragonflies $x Effect of habitat modification on
Dragonflies $x Life cycles

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