Why do tropical odonate species often develop faster than species in colder climates?
Tropical odonate species generally develop faster than those in colder climates because their life cycles are not constrained by the seasonal temperature fluctuations and the necessity for diapause that characterize temperate regions.12
In temperate climates, many Odonata species must adapt to cold winters by entering a state of developmental standstill, often spending their final winter as larvae, eggs, or immature adults to survive unfavorable conditions. This requirement for dormancy significantly extends the total duration of their life cycle, which can range from three weeks to more than eight years depending on the species and its environment. Conversely, tropical environments typically provide more consistent conditions that allow for continuous development, enabling these species to complete their life cycles in less time.31