What is the difference between Dragonflies and Damselflies?
Dragonflies and damselflies belong to the insect order known as Odonata, meaning “toothed jaw” – their mouthparts are serrated. They are often referred to collectively as “dragonflies”, however there are two different sub-orders. Damselflies are insect in the sub-order Zygoptera (meaning “yoke-winged”). All four wings are near enough equal in size and shape. They are usually small, weakly flying insects that stay close to the water margins or water surface. When at rest, most species hold their wings along the length of their abdomen. The eyes are always separated, never touching. The larvae have external plates (lamellae) at the end of the abdomen, which act as accessory gills. Dragonflies are insects in the sub-order Anisoptera (meaning”unequal-winged”). Hind wings are usually shorter and broader than Fore wings. They are usually larger, strongly flying insects that can often be found flying well away from water. When at rest, they hold their wings out from the body, often at right a
