How do female dragonflies lay their eggs?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Male jewelwing damselfly (Calopteryx splendens). — Odonata Male jewelwing damselfly (*Calopteryx splendens*).

Female dragonflies typically lay their eggs shortly after mating, either alone or while being guarded by their partner. The specific method depends on the species and its physical anatomy:

Species with an ovipositor: These dragonflies use their well-formed ovipositor to place eggs either within or on plant tissue, located either above or directly in the water. Some individuals may even submerge themselves beneath the water's surface for an hour or more to deposit their eggs.1
Species without an ovipositor: These dragonflies deposit eggs by dipping their abdomen into the water, sometimes while in flight, to wash the eggs off. Alternatively, they may stick eggs onto leaves near the water's surface or simply drop them through the air onto the water.1

To ensure the eggs are not swept away in running water, many species have evolved adhesive or tangling devices that help the eggs remain in place.1