Notes on behaviour and morphology of some species of Odonata in the Maltese Islands

Abstract

The Maltese Islands have limited availability of freshwater, so the local species of Odonata may adopt behavioural strategies which they may not use elsewhere where water is readily available. Moreover, since local species of Odonata tend to be the more common, hardy and adaptable species found in neighbouring countries, their behavioural strategies and morphological features may be relatively less studied than species which are rarer and perhaps more vulnerable. Between September 2012 and September 2013, behavioural strategies and morphological features of Odonata were observed along four valleys (Wied Qlejgħa, Fiddien, Wied ta’ Għajn Riħana, and Wied Ħesri) and a saltmarsh (Is-Simar) in Malta.