Emperor Dragonfly Nymph
Anax imperator (nymph)
Lives underwater in ponds, lakes, canals, and slow ditches, usually among stems, roots, and submerged debris. It is a sit-and-wait predator that eats mosquito larvae, small aquatic insects, tadpoles, and even tiny fish when it can overpower them. The nymph breathes through internal gills and can move with sudden bursts by forcing water from its body. Its most notable feature is a hinged, extendable lower mouthpart that shoots forward to grab prey.
- Type
- Water
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- Emperor Dragonfly Nymph
- Emperor Dragonfly