A contribution to the study of Algerian Odonata

A survey of the dragonflies of Algeria, spanning nine years, has yielded 53 species. Past records of another 10 species are believed to be genuine, making up a total of 63 species for the country. We try to clarify the status of these supplementary species and also provide information on the current distribution and present…

Post-copulatory behaviour in Calopteryx females (Insecta, Odonata, Calopterygidae)

The post-copulatory behaviour of Calopteryx splendens females was studied under field and laboratory conditions. After termination of copulation females usually perch and bend the abdomen so that its apex touches the ground (post-copulatory posture). The post-copulatory posture is a consequence of sperm removal by males. Male and female microstructures (spines and scales) interact to move…