Dragonflies and Damselflies
(Order: Odonata)
Subdivided into two suborders: the dragonflies of Odonata, and the damselflies of Zygoptera. Fifteen families of dragonflies and 10 families of damselflies occur in Australia, with around 326 described species. Body long and thin with large head and large compound eyes. Two pairs of long membranous wings, the hindwings broader than the forewings, and held horizontal in dragonflies and typically rear facing in damselflies, when at rest. Both the aquatic nymphs and flying adults are active predators.