Dragonflies in the nature garden: Optimising your pond as a habitat

At a glance

• Dragonflies (Odonata) are highly specialised indicators of a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
• The larval stage takes place in the water and can last for several years depending on the species; therefore, a stable water level all year round is essential.
• The design of shallow-water zones is key to attracting species such as the Azure Damselfly (Coenagrion puella).

Supporting dragonflies in the nature garden: Ecological connections

In July, dragonfly activity at the pond is at its peak. These insects are fascinating predators – both in their larval stage and as fully developed adults (imagines). As residents of your garden, they act as biological control, hunting other flying insects. Their presence indicates high water quality and a balanced food supply.

The dragonfly life cycle is closely linked to the condition of your pond. We distinguish between dragonflies (Anisoptera) and damselflies (Zygoptera). While the former are usually more robust and hold their wings out to the sides when at rest, damselflies usually hold their wings folded together over their abdomen. For successful reproduction, both groups require specific structures that you can provide through targeted design.

Habitat requirements

The following table illustrates which areas are crucial for the different life stages of dragonflies:

Practical tips for support

1. Avoid fish stocking: Fish eat dragonfly larvae. A fish-free pond is the basic requirement for the colonisation of many species.
2. Create structural diversity: Choose native aquatic plants such as Rigid Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) or Common Water-plantain (Alisma plantago-aquatica). These provide larvae with hiding places from predators.
3. Provide exit aids: When a dragonfly larva ends its life in the water, it must climb out onto firm stems to complete its final moult (metamorphosis) into a flying dragonfly. Reeds (Phragmites australis) or rushes (Juncus effusus) are ideal for this.
4. Chemical-free zone: As dragonfly larvae breathe through gills, even the smallest residues of fertilisers or pesticides from the surrounding garden can be fatal. Use only organic methods for garden maintenance and avoid synthetic fertilisers entirely.
5. Allow for succession: Do not remove all organic material from the pond every year. Dragonflies need detritus (decaying organic material) on the bottom as a livelihood for their prey.

Dragonflies are not fast colonisers that appear immediately at every new pond. However, if you create stability in the pond through a natural design – without fish, without chemicals, and with dense, native bank vegetation – these impressive hunters will enrich your ecological system for the long term.

Frequently asked questions

Why do fish eat dragonfly larvae?

Dragonfly larvae are defenceless prey. Fish decimate the population, making a natural dragonfly population in the pond almost impossible.

Which plants are essential for dragonflies?

Plants such as Water-plantain or rushes serve as exit aids for metamorphosis, while underwater plants offer larvae protection from predators.

Do I need to clean the pond in July?

No. July is peak season for their development. Disturbances to the bottom or the vegetation destroy the larvae's habitat.

Main article: Nature garden in July: How to manage succession and pond ecology