Plants are a very important part of the life cycle of the dragonfly and damselfly. Aquatic plants provide a home for the eggs of both damselflies and dragonflies. It is important to remember that although we may see damselflies and dragonflies in many different habitats, often away from water, if the conditions are not prefect, they will not breed.  Take for example the Four Spotted Chaser.  The male of this specie can sometimes be seen dipping its abdomen in to the water, simulating a female laying eggs. It is reported that the male may in fact be testing the water quality!

Good mixtures of emergent and aquatic vegetation offer opportunities to complete their life-cycle. Some species may lay their eggs in the bankside vegetation.  Upon hatching, the nymph will fall in to or make it way to water to develop. Others will lay their eggs in mud. Although these beasties have a reputation (once known as horse-stingers!) non are parasitic and non are aggressive (unless you are a dragonfly or supper!!)

Over-hanging vegetation, such as trees, provide opportunities for perching and displaying as well as a superb hunting ground for food.