Larval development of Argia joergenseni (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) at two different latitudes in Argentina

MÁRQUEZ, JAVIER A.; RODRÍGUEZ, JOSÉ S.; HANKEL, GUILLERMO; MOLINERI, CARLOS

Revista de la Sociedad Entomologica Argentina

Sociedad Entomologica Argentina

Año: 2023

1851-7471

ABSTRACT. Our aim was to investigate the larval development of Argia joergenseni Ris in three streams located at different latitudes and ecoregions (Yungas and Chaco) in Argentina. We measured the head width and the metathoracic wing sheath length, and classified larvae into five size classes. Our results showed different patterns of larval growth between the three study sites. At the Yungas sites (latitude 26o S), larvae exhibited a high proportion of small individuals throughout the year, suggesting a multivoltine life cycle. In contrast, larvae in the Chaco region (latitude 32o S) showed marked seasonality in growth. The findings indicate a negative correlation between voltinism and latitude in A. joergenseni. The species exhibited an almost continuous flight season in the Yungas, while at the southern limit of its distribution (Chaco), the flight season was limited to the warmest months. This study provides important information on the larval ecology ofA. joergenseni, contributing to a better understanding of the dynamics of damselfly communities and facilitating the development of effective conservation measures.