Small red-eyed damselfly

The Small red-eyed damselfly (Erythromma viridulum) is a species of damselfly belonging to the family Coenagrionidae, order Odonata. It is frequently observed in habitats surrounding agricultural fields, particularly near irrigation ditches and water reservoirs.

In terms of agricultural impact, this species is not a plant pest. It is an obligate predator throughout its lifecycle. Adults hunt smaller insects in the air, while their aquatic larvae feed on various small invertebrates found in standing or slow-moving water sources.

The life cycle begins with oviposition into the tissues of floating or emergent aquatic vegetation. Following hatching, the larvae (nymphs) undergo several instars while inhabiting the water column. The duration of this development depends on water temperature and the abundance of available prey.

There is no documented record of this species causing damage to crops. It does not possess mouthparts capable of consuming plant tissues, and it does not facilitate the transmission of common plant pathogens in a way that would require economic intervention.

Management practices for this species are limited to habitat modification. Since it is not an agricultural pest, no chemical control is necessary or recommended. Regular maintenance of irrigation systems, including the removal of dense submerged weeds, effectively manages the habitat availability for their development.