Dragonfly Nymph (Naiad)

Found in freshwater environments like ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams, often clinging to submerged vegetation or rocks.

Carnivorous predators; they eat aquatic insects, tadpoles, and even small fish using a specialized, labial mask that shoots out to grab prey.

Aquatic life stage lasting months to years; they breathe through gills located in their rectum and can propel themselves forward by forcefully expelling water.

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling mosquito populations; they are harmless to humans but can deliver a small, non-venomous pinch if handled roughly.