Oviposition of Coenagriocnemis reuniensis (Fraser) in volcanic rock as an adaptation to an extreme running water habitat (Zygoptera: Coenagrionidae)

The sp. inhabits streams and rivers in the mountain forests of the Indian Ocean of La Reunion. Because of heavy seasonal rainfalls and steep inclines, there are drastic changes of water level. As a consequence, no water plants, roots or wet driftwood at all are available for oviposition. The sp. seems to be well adapted to this habitat: females oviposit into wet soft and porous lava stones. The closely related C. insularis and C. rufipes inhabit streams and rivers on Mauritius, where there are less extreme conditions. Both spp. deposit eggs in plant tissue.