Dragonflies and Damselflies: How Heat and Habitat Shape Their World

In the vast Amazon rainforest, tiny details can make a big difference for dragonflies and damselflies. These insects, known as Odonata, have specific needs when it comes to their body temperature and the places they call home. A recent study looked at how these factors affect their numbers and variety in the streams of Pará, Brazil. The study found that the width of an Odonata's thorax and the air temperature around them are closely linked. Different types of Odonata, like dragonflies and damselflies, have different relationships with these factors. For example, damselflies seem to prefer cooler spots, while dragonflies might handle warmer temperatures better. Interestingly, the study also discovered that the range of habitats a species can live in, or its niche breadth, plays a big role in how many of them there are. This is important because it shows that both the physical needs of these insects and the variety of places they live are crucial for their survival. This information is not just cool facts. It can help in protecting these insects and using them to check the health of their environments. By understanding what makes Odonata thrive, we can better take care of the Amazon's streams and the creatures that call them home.