The ecology and behavior of Tachopteryx thoreyi (Hagen) (Anisoptera: Petaluridae)

A Florida colony of T. thoreyi was studied throughout the flight season of 25 March-28 May 1978. Larvae of several instars were found near the uphill edges of permanent seeps in deciduous forest, hiding between or under leaves in thin sheets of flowing water. In captivity they preferred to live above water on wet soil. Transformation occurred on any vertical support 0.2-1.4 m above ground during mid-morning, and sexual maturity was attained in 2-3 weeks. Males searched tree trunks or waited in the seepage areas for females. Males had no day-to-day site fidelity at the seeps. Larger prey taken was about 2/3 Lepidoptera and 1/3 Odonata. The minimum population, based on individual marking and collection data, was 128 males and 46 females. Marked males moved distances of at least I. I km, and both sexes shifted locations often. The egg and 3 larval instars are described. Ecological adaptations and ecological relationships with Cordulegaster are discussed.