Agnostic Behavior in Final-Instar Larvae of the Damselfly Neosticta-Fraseri (Odonata, Isostictidae)

Abstract

Larval agonistic displays are reported from an isostictid damselfly, Neosticta fraseri. Twenty major displays were distinguished. Display motor patterns showed a general similarity with those recognised in larval Coenagrionidae (a family regarded on adult characters as being closely allied to the Isostictidae). The agonistic behaviour repertoire of N. fraseri is contrasted with published information on coenagrionid larvae and also with the behaviours of Diphlebia euphoeoides (Amphipterygidae), a superficially similar larva occurring in the same habitat. The use of larval agonistic display characters in phylogenetic analysis is discussed.