Food and time resource partitioning in two coexisting Lestes species (Zygoptera: Lestidae)

Two coexisting populations of Lestes virens (Charp.) and L. barbarus (Fab.) at a temporary pond were studied in 1979 and 1980 to investigate a possible partitioning of time and food resources. Results show that larval diets are affected by larval size in both species. Since the life cycles of the two species are displaced, it is concluded that such displacement facilitates coexistence by reducing food competition.