Insects represent the fastest declining group of species and are among those most threatened by human activities. Yet, they remain largely neglected by conservation policies and conservation biology research. Wetlands, which have declined sharply over the last century and are still under threat, are essential to many taxonomic groups, including insects. Odonates (damselflies and dragonflies) are valuable indicators of the state of conservation of these environments. The restoration of habitats, including their re-creation, has been identified as a priority for the current decade. These conservation actions are enhanced by the use of a flagship species, provided that in-depth knowledge of its ecological requirements is available.
This thesis, defended in June 2024 by Philippe Lambret, focused on the ecology of the eggs and larvae of the threatened dragonfly Lestes macrostigma. Through four studies carried out in the Camargue, the effects of the hydrological regime, the level of salinity of the water, animal interactions and the types of plants used to lay the eggs of this species were examined.
The results of this research, which integrates the key stages of dragonfly population dynamics, provide a solid scientific basis for developing conservation actions targeting not only the species, but also the restoration of temporary Mediterranean brackish ponds, using L. macrostigma as a flagship species. This thesis represents an important case study on how to take threatened insects into account in biodiversity conservation strategies.
Conservation ecology of the threatened damselfly Lestes macrostigma – An integrated life cycle approach
© 2024 KU Leuven, Science, Engineering & Technology
Self edited, Philippe Lambret, Arles (France).
Contact
Philippe Lambret – Odonate conservation project manager at Tour du Valat
