The reproductive behaviour of Copera marginipes (Rambur) and C. vittata acutimargo (Kruger) (Zygoptera: Platycnemididae)

The reproductive behaviour of Copera marginipes (Rambur) and C. vittata acutimargo (Kruger) was examined in the field. The male establishes a circular territory about a base perch. In C. marginipes this perch is defended by the abdomen-raising display. The territory is established by the patrolling, chase and elaborate confrontation-flash displays. The function of the territory, the increasing complexity of these displays, and the bivalency of the flash display, are discussed. Mating occurs outside the territory, and copulation is of long duration. Oviposition is endophytic, in tandem and outside the territory; it occurs at the water’s surface.