Predation risks associated with mating and oviposition for female Crocothemis erythraea (Brullé) (Anisoptera: Libellulidae)

Observations are presented on oviposition and mate guarding in the Camargue. France. After a short copulation at the oviposition site, females immediately commence exophytic oviposition whilst being non-contact guarded by their mates, and they generally suffer a high level of interference from other males. Although a trend was found, guarded females did not have a significant advantage over non-guarded in terms of either reduced interference rates or an increased number of egg-laying dips made. Predation rates on 2 and tandem pairs of C. erythraea by other dragonfly spp. were measured. Tandem pairs and ovipositing females were particularly vulnerable, providing hard evidence for a survival cost associated with reproduction.