Emerald Dragonflies

The genus Somatochlora, commonly known as emerald dragonflies, belongs to the family Corduliidae within the order Odonata. From an agronomic perspective, these insects are strictly beneficial rather than being pests, as they do not consume any part of agricultural crops or ornamental plants.

The biological cycle of these dragonflies is water-dependent. Their larvae develop in various aquatic environments, including ponds, streams, and marshes, over several years. Once they emerge as adults, they become highly mobile, active predators capable of hunting across vast areas of farmland.

Regarding their impact on crops, Somatochlora species cause zero damage to plant tissues, fruits, or roots. Their mouthparts are strictly adapted for capturing and consuming other insects, making them highly efficient entomophagous organisms that contribute to the natural reduction of pest populations in fields.

Their importance in agriculture lies in their role as natural pest suppressors. They feed on various small winged insects, including agricultural pests and disease-carrying vectors like mosquitoes. By maintaining a population of these predators, farmers benefit from a cleaner and more ecologically balanced growing environment.

No protection measures are needed for these insects as they are not pests. To conserve these beneficial dragonflies, it is recommended to implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and ensure that pesticides are applied with caution to prevent drift into ponds and surrounding aquatic habitats where larvae reside.