Life histories and ecology of Odonata breeding in phytotelmata in Bornean rainforest

Pericnemis triangularis Laidlaw (Coenagrionidae), Indaeschna grubaueri (Forster) (Aeshnidae) and Lyriothemis cleis Brauer (Libellulidae) are reported breeding in phytotelmata in the understorey of lowland mixed dipterocarp rainforest in Borneo. The pattern of utilization by the 3 spp, of phytotelmata of varying sizes is surveyed and observations are made in field and laboratory on larval behaviour, especially territoriality and intra- and interspecific predation, and developmental rales. Possible adaptations to special conditions found in phytotelmata, including low oxygen tensions, limited food and close proximity of other larvae, are discussed. Descriptions are provided for the larvae of P. triangularis and I. grubaueri.