Dragonflies, these light flying spirits, are not only an indispensable part of nature, but also reveal the complex and delicate ecological balance in nature with their unique ecological habits and preferences for specific plants. As a plant expert, I’m going to take you inside the world of dragonflies’ favorite plants and explore the little-known stories among them.
Ecological Habits Of Dragonflies
Dragonflies belong to the family dragonfly and the family Fusulinidae. They are large, with long and narrow wings, slender abdomens, anal appendages at the end, thin and weak feet, and hooked spines. Dragonflies are beneficial insects, and adults often prey on agricultural pests such as small moths, which is of great significance for maintaining ecological balance and reducing the number of pests.
The habits of dragonflies are closely related to their environment. They prefer moist environments, often flying in ponds or rivers, and their larvae (nymphs) also need to develop in water. Odonata insects are semi-metamorphosed and have only three stages in their life: egg, nymph and adult. Adult insects lay eggs into the water by dragonfly water, and nymphs hunt other aquatic organisms in the water, climb out of the water before emergence, and mate and lay eggs to complete their life history.
Dragonflies Prefer Plants
Dragonflies are not only known for their excellent flying abilities and hunting skills, but their preference for plants is also surprising. Dragonflies display a high degree of selectivity and aesthetic interest in the selection of plants to roost and feed on.
1. Colorful and fragrant flowers
Dragonflies have a strong preference for flowers with bright colors and strong aroma. These flowers not only provide a rich food source for the dragonflies, but also provide an ideal habitat for them. Tulips, roses, jasmine and other flowers are favored by dragonflies. These flowers are not only rich in color and aroma, but also in different forms, providing diverse choices for dragonflies.
2. Flowers with depth or symmetry along a central axis
Studies have shown that dragonflies are interested in flowers that have depth or symmetry along a central axis. The structure and morphology of such flowers are often more complex, providing more space for dragonflies to explore and roost. Flowers such as iris and phalaenopsis are favored by dragonflies. These flowers are not only beautiful, but also have unique ecological value, providing a good ecological environment for insects such as dragonflies.
3. Flowers with special forms
Dragonflies also prefer special flowers, such as strellium and carnation. These flowers have unique shapes and rich colors, which not only attract the dragonfly’s attention, but also provide them with a unique habitat. Dragonflies move through these special forms of flowers, as if on a wonderful adventure.
4. Trees with luxuriant foliage
In addition to flowers, dragonflies also like to perch on leafy trees. These trees provide shade and habitat for dragonflies, allowing them to stay cool in hot weather. Tall trees also give dragonflies a wide view, allowing them to better observe their surroundings and catch prey.
5. Aquatic plant
Dragonflies, as aquatic insects, also have a special preference for aquatic plants. Aquatic plants such as lotus and water lilies not only provide a rich source of food for dragonflies, but also provide a place for them to breed and roost. The growing environment of these aquatic plants is often more humid, which is conducive to the survival and reproduction of dragonflies.
The Ecological Relationship Between Dragonflies And Plants
The ecological relationship between dragonfly and plant is interdependent and mutually promoting. Plants provide places for dragonflies to roost, feed and breed, while dragonflies provide protection for plants by catching pests, among other things.
1. A vital link in the food chain
Dragonflies are an important link in the food chain, feeding on other insects and helping to control pest populations. This not only protects the plants from pests, but also maintains the balance of the ecosystem.
2. Propagate pollen
Although dragonflies primarily feed on prey, they also occasionally come into contact with pollen during flight, thus participating in the pollination process of plants to a certain extent. Although this is not their primary function, the pollination role of dragonflies still has some ecological significance for some plants.
3. Environmental monitoring
As aquatic insects, dragonflies are very sensitive to changes in water quality. Therefore, they are often used as indicators of water pollution. By observing the species and quantity changes of dragonflies, we can indirectly understand the water quality status and provide an important basis for environmental protection.
How To Create A Dragonfly Friendly Plant Environment
To attract and protect dragonflies, there are steps we can take to create dragonfly friendly plant environments.
1. Grow a variety of flowers
Planting a variety of flowers in the yard or garden, especially those with bright colors and strong aroma, can attract more dragonflies to roost and feed. At the same time, these flowers can also provide a rich source of nectar and pollen for dragonflies.
2. Preserve natural vegetation
In landscape design, try to preserve natural vegetation, especially those leafy trees and aquatic plants. These vegetation provide an ideal habitat and breeding environment for dragonflies.
3. Reduce the use of chemical pesticides
The use of chemical pesticides can cause great harm to insects such as dragonflies. Therefore, in horticultural management, the use of chemical pesticides should be minimized, and environmental protection methods such as biological control should be adopted to control pests.
4. Provide water
Dragonflies like wet environments, so you can set up some small water features in the courtyard or garden, such as ponds, fountains, etc. These water sources not only provide breeding grounds for dragonflies, but also increase air humidity and improve environmental quality.
Conclusion
The ecological relationship between dragonfly and plant is interdependent and mutually promoting. Plants provide places for dragonflies to roost, feed and breed, while dragonflies provide protection for plants by catching pests, among other things. By creating a dragonfly friendly plant environment, we can better protect these beautiful aerial spirits and maintain the balance and stability of the ecosystem.
In the future landscape design and environmental protection, we should pay more attention to the ecological needs of insects such as dragonflies, and create a better ecological environment for them by planting diversified flowers, preserving natural vegetation, reducing the use of chemical pesticides and providing water sources. In this way, we can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery of dragonflies dancing in the air, but also contribute to the ecological balance of the earth.
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