How long do dragonflies live as nymphs underwater?

It depends on the species. Some smaller dragonflies spend just a few months as nymphs, while larger upland species can stay underwater for three to five years before emerging as adults.

What do dragonfly nymphs eat?

They're ambush predators that eat small aquatic insects, tadpoles, and even tiny fish if they're large enough. They catch prey using a hinged lower lip called a labium that shoots forward and grabs victims with surprising speed.

Do dragonfly nymphs breathe underwater?

Yes, they breathe through gills and live entirely underwater during their nymphal stage. They're fully aquatic and can stay submerged for months or years until they're ready to emerge as adults.

Creepy-Crawlies: A Field Report

The Dragonfly Before Flight: Meeting the Upland Nymph

Dragonflies go through egg, aquatic larval (or nymph), and adult stages, with the larvae sporting six legs and an extendable hinged labium for catching prey. Larval development varies greatly between species, so patience is advisable.

9 October 20267 min read