Interesting facts about Dragonflies & Essay :
Dragonflies are insects that belong to the order Odonata, which also includes damselflies.
They are found on every continent except Antarctica.
Dragonflies have been around for over 300 million years, making them one of the oldest groups of insects.
There are over 5,000 known species of dragonflies.
Dragonflies can fly at speeds of up to 35 mph (56 km/h).
They can fly in any direction, including backwards and upside down.
Dragonflies are predatory insects, and they hunt and eat other insects, including flies, mosquitoes, and aphids.
They have excellent vision and can see in almost all directions at once.
Dragonflies have two pairs of transparent wings that are held perpendicular to the body when at rest.
The wings of a dragonfly are strong and flexible, allowing them to make quick and agile flights.
Dragonflies have a lifespan of only a few months to a year.
They undergo a process called metamorphosis, which involves a transformation from a larval stage (nymph) to an adult.
Dragonflies are important indicators of the health of an ecosystem because they are sensitive to changes in water quality and availability.
They are also important predators that help to control pest populations.
Dragonflies are found near bodies of water, such as ponds, streams, and marshes, because they need water to breed and lay their eggs.
The eggs are laid in or near water, and the larvae (nymphs) hatch and live underwater until they are ready to emerge as adults.
Adult dragonflies typically emerge from their nymphal stage in the summer and are most active during the day.
The male dragonflies are usually more brightly colored than the females.
Some species of dragonflies engage in elaborate courtship rituals, including flying displays and gift-giving.
The male dragonflies defend their territory and attract females by perching on prominent perches and waiting for females to fly by.
When a female approaches, the male will fly up and perform a series of aerial maneuvers to attract her attention.
The female dragonfly will then lay her eggs in the water, either by dipping her abdomen into the water or by laying them directly on aquatic plants.
The nymphs (larvae) are carnivorous and feed on small aquatic invertebrates.
They have sharp, toothed mandibles that they use to catch and eat their prey.
As the nymphs grow, they molt (shed their exoskeleton) several times before reaching adulthood.
The adult dragonflies emerge from the water when they are ready to transform into adults.
They crawl up a plant or other vertical surface and shed their exoskeleton one final time to reveal the adult dragonfly.
The adult dragonflies then fly away to find a mate and start the cycle all over again.
Dragonflies are important pollinators and help to disperse pollen and fertilize flowers.
They are also a popular food source for birds, bats, and other predators.
Dragonflies are sensitive to changes in their environment, and some species are threatened by habitat loss and degradation.
They are protected by law in many countries, and efforts are underway to conserve and protect their habitats.
Dragonflies are fascinating insects that are found on every continent except Antarctica. They are most commonly found near bodies of water, such as lakes, streams, and wetlands. Dragonflies are known for their bright colors and agile flight, and are able to fly at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. In addition to their beauty, dragonflies are important predators in their ecosystem, helping to control the population of other insects. They go through a process called metamorphosis, where they change from a larval stage (called a nymph) to an adult. The adult dragonfly has a lifespan of just a few months, and some species migrate over long distances. Dragonflies are also good indicators of the health of an ecosystem because they are sensitive to pollution and changes in the environment.
About the Creator
Gajendira Kumar
I am Not a Legend I am the Lengends Maker by GAJAJI
Content Creator
Future Technology
Keep reading
More stories from Gajendira Kumar and writers in Earth and other communities.
Gravity battery Concept
A gravity battery is a type of energy storage system that utilizes the force of gravity to store and release energy. The basic principle behind a gravity battery is to use the weight of an object, such as a heavy weight or a piston, to store energy when it is lifted, and to release energy when it is allowed to fall.
By Gajendira Kumar3 years ago in Earth
Stanislav Kondrashov: The Quiet Power of Policymakers in the Energy Transition
In the unfolding drama of the global energy transition, engineers, entrepreneurs, and environmentalists often take centre stage. Yet, behind the spotlight, it is policymakers who are quietly shaping the script. According to Stanislav Kondrashov, an independent energy analyst and frequent commentator on international energy strategy, the transition is less about technology and more about timing, regulation, and political will.
By Stanislav Kondrashov 6 days ago in Earth
Snow, Rain and Wind Warnings Continue After Storm Goretti Disruption
Severe weather has once again placed large parts of the country on edge, as snow, rain, and strong wind warnings continue in the aftermath of Storm Goretti. While the storm’s most intense phase may have passed, its disruption lingers, leaving transport networks strained, power services under pressure, and communities bracing for further unsettled conditions. Storm Goretti arrived with a powerful combination of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and wintry conditions in higher and northern regions. The immediate impact was widespread: flooded roads, fallen trees, travel cancellations, and temporary power outages. Now, as emergency crews and local authorities work through the damage, meteorologists are warning that the weather pattern remains unstable, with fresh alerts issued for snow, rain, and wind in the days ahead. What Storm Goretti Left Behind Goretti’s passage was fast but forceful. Torrential rain caused rivers to swell and surface water flooding to develop quickly in low-lying areas. In exposed coastal and upland regions, wind gusts were strong enough to bring down trees and damage infrastructure. Meanwhile, colder air sweeping in behind the storm delivered snow and icy conditions, particularly affecting rural roads and higher elevations. For many commuters, the disruption was immediate and frustrating. Rail services were delayed or suspended due to flooded tracks and debris on lines. Roads became hazardous, with localised closures as emergency teams worked to clear fallen branches and manage flooding. Airports also reported delays, as strong crosswinds and poor visibility complicated operations. Although the storm itself has moved on, its effects are far from over. Ongoing Warnings: Why the Risk Remains High Weather agencies have stressed that the current warnings should be taken seriously. The ground is already saturated from recent rainfall, meaning even moderate additional rain could lead to further flooding. Rivers and drainage systems are under strain, and recovery time is limited before the next weather system arrives. Snow and ice warnings add another layer of concern. Overnight temperatures are expected to dip in several regions, increasing the risk of icy roads and pavements. For drivers, this creates dangerous conditions, especially in areas where gritting resources are stretched after consecutive weather events. Wind warnings also remain in place, particularly along coasts and in elevated areas. While gusts may not reach the peak levels seen during Goretti, even slightly weaker winds can still cause problems when trees and structures have already been weakened. Impact on Communities and Daily Life For local communities, the continuation of weather warnings means disruption becomes a drawn-out experience rather than a short-term event. Schools in some areas have faced temporary closures or delayed openings, especially where travel conditions remain unsafe. Businesses dependent on transport and foot traffic are also feeling the strain, as customers stay home and deliveries are delayed. Rural areas are often hit hardest. Narrow roads, limited public transport alternatives, and longer response times can make even minor weather incidents more serious. Farmers are also concerned about waterlogged fields, livestock safety, and damage to fencing and buildings. In urban centres, the focus has shifted to managing surface water flooding and ensuring public transport can run safely. Councils are urging residents to report blocked drains and avoid unnecessary travel during warning periods. Emergency Services Under Pressure Emergency and utility services continue to operate at high alert. Fire and rescue teams have been responding to flooding incidents, fallen trees, and weather-related accidents. Power companies are working to restore and reinforce electricity supplies, while also preparing for the possibility of new outages if conditions deteriorate again. Local authorities have opened temporary support centres in some regions, particularly for vulnerable residents affected by power cuts or flooding. These efforts highlight the importance of community preparedness, as repeated weather events stretch resources and personnel. The Broader Weather Pattern Meteorologists explain that Storm Goretti is part of a broader pattern of unsettled weather driven by active Atlantic systems. Instead of a single storm followed by calm conditions, the atmosphere is producing a succession of fronts, each bringing its own mix of rain, wind, and temperature changes. This pattern increases uncertainty and makes forecasting more challenging. Small shifts in temperature can mean the difference between rain and snow, while slight changes in wind direction can significantly affect coastal impacts. As a result, weather warnings may be updated frequently, requiring the public to stay informed and flexible. How to Stay Safe During Continued Warnings Authorities are urging people not to become complacent simply because the main storm has passed. Continued vigilance is essential, especially as conditions can change quickly. Key safety advice includes: Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of snow, ice, or strong winds. Check weather updates regularly from official sources. Secure loose items outdoors that could become dangerous in high winds. Be cautious near rivers, coastlines, and flood-prone areas. Look out for neighbours, particularly elderly or vulnerable individuals. Preparation can make a significant difference, especially when weather disruption extends over several days rather than a single event. Looking Ahead While there are signs that conditions may gradually improve later in the week, the immediate outlook remains unsettled. The continuation of snow, rain, and wind warnings after Storm Goretti serves as a reminder of how quickly weather can impact daily life and essential services. For now, recovery and preparedness must go hand in hand. Clearing up after one storm while preparing for the next has become an unfortunate reality for many communities. As climate patterns continue to shift, such sequences of disruptive weather may become more common, making resilience and awareness more important than ever. Storm Goretti may no longer dominate the forecasts, but its legacy lives on in the warnings that remain—and in the determination of communities working through yet another challenging spell of weather.
By Muhammad Hassan2 days ago in Earth
Day 4 of Quitting
If this is how sobriety feels, maybe it’s better to go through life a little buzzed… this, along with other hits like, I want to kill myself, I wish I was dead, and I’m going to throw myself off a bridge have been the only thoughts on rotation these past few days. I promise myself that if, in a month, I still feel like this (‘this’ meaning despondent, full of rage, and simultaneously numb) I can go back to smoking. Until mid-February though? Nicotine is off the table.
By sleepy drafts6 days ago in Longevity
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.