Atypical selection of oviposition site in Anax parthenope (Selys) (Anisoptera: Aeshnidae)

A. parthenope, which usually breeds at permanent waters, was observed ovipositing into the bottom of a dried up pond in Southern Italy. In ovipositing aeshnids 3 levels of relation to water are distinguished: (1) oviposition into' floating vegetation of permanent waters, (2) oviposition into dry substrate at a short distance from water, (3) oviposition into dry substrate far from water.