Thermal Constraints Drive Elevational Divergence in Mate-guarding Behaviour of Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata) in the Bhagirathi River Basin, Uttarakhand, India

Shuvendu Das; V. P. Uniyal

doi:10.36808/if/2026/v152i3/171159

Thermal Constraints Drive Elevational Divergence in Mate-guarding Behaviour of Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata) in the Bhagirathi River Basin, Uttarakhand, India

Authors

Shuvendu Das Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, Uttarakhand
V. P. Uniyal Department of Biosciences, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36808/if/2026/v152i3/171159

Keywords:

Odonata, Mate guarding, Bhagirathi basin, Western Himalaya, Reproductive ecology.

Abstract

Mate-guarding behaviour is a key reproductive strategy in Odonata, yet its variation across Himalayan elevational gradients remains poorly documented. This study examined mate-guarding behaviour in 53 species of dragonflies and damselflies observed across freshwater habitats of the Bhagirathi River Basin in Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya. Behavioural observations recorded copulation duration, guarding distance, ambient temperature and copulation success across multiple elevations. Results revealed substantial interspecific variation in mating investment, with prolonged copulation associated with higher reproductive success. Most dragonflies exhibited contact guarding, whereas damselflies showed a broader spectrum including spatial guarding strategies. These findings highlight the influence of thermal environments and behavioural investment on reproductive success in Himalayan odonate communities.

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