Abstract

MARQUEZ, Javier A.; RODRIGUEZ, José S.; HANKEL, Guillermo  and  MOLINERI, Carlos. Larval development of Argia joergenseni (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) at two different latitudes in Argentina. Rev. Soc. Entomol. Argent. [online]. 2023, vol.82, n.4, pp.4-4.  Epub Dec 25, 2023. ISSN 0373-5680.

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 of A. joergenseni, contributing to a better understanding of the dynamics of damselfly communities and facilitating the development of effective conservation measures.

Keywords : Flying season; Growth dynamics; Life cycle strategy; Seasonality; Temporal patterns.

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