Researchers have identified 100 species of dragonflies and damselflies that undertake migrations across the planet, with an additional 85 species suspected of being migratory. The findings come from a global review by scientists at the universities of Exeter and Lund, published in the journal Biological Reviews.
These migrations can involve millions of individual insects, some traveling thousands of kilometers. While only about 1.5% of all dragonfly and damselfly species are confirmed migrants—or 2.9% when including possible migrants—the scale of these movements is vast and largely overlooked.
The study highlights that certain species make long-distance journeys, crisscrossing continents, though the exact numbers and routes vary. The research compiles evidence from multiple sources to build a clearer picture of these insect migrations.
The implications for ecology and conservation are significant. Understanding these migration patterns could help predict how dragonflies and damselflies respond to climate change and habitat loss. The findings also underscore the need for more research into the behaviors of these insects.
"This is the first global assessment of migratory dragonflies and damselflies," said the researchers, emphasizing the importance of continued study. The review provides a foundation for future work on insect migration.