The reproductive behaviour in Coenagrion lindeni (Selys) in central Italy (Zygoptera: Coenagrionidae)

The reproductive ethogram of C. lindeni is described. Males may show territorial as well as non-territorial behaviour. The tandem position may be assumed either with the female in flight or when perched. One or both members in tandem may display to approaching individuals; a magnification of the warning signal is supposed to result from both members of a pair displaying at the same time. Intra-male sperm translocation occurred while the tandem pairs were perched and preceded copulation. It is suggested that cooperation of the female in the successful forming of the wheel may be caused by a reflex response to the stimulation of her prothorax by the male cerci. Exceptionally a female will copulate twice a day. Surface oviposition is chiefly performed in tandem, seldom by unaccompanied females. If the female tends to complete submersion, the male will drag her out of water and shift to another site. In some circumstances, however, he loses his grip on the female prothorax, leadingto the female continuing underwater oviposition alone. Occasionally an emerging female is seized again by her previous mate.