Emergence pattern,microhabitat choice,and population structure of the Maghribian endemic Gomphus lucasii Selys, 1849 (Odonata: Gomphidae) in northeastern Algeria

Emergence of Gomphus lucasii Selys, 1849, an unstudied Maghreb endemic, was synchronised by overwintering in the final stadium in the Seybouse River in northeastern Algeria. Regular collections revealed that half of the annual population emerged during 10 days, showing a typical ‘spring species’ emergence pattern. Sex ratio was slightly male biased (51%). Males and females did not differ in vertical stratification. Emergence support choice was not random, but rather depended on support height, body size, and daily population density. Mortality was caused mainly by ants, although deformity of tenerals and bird predation were also important factors. Gomphus lucasii has been assessed as vulnerable (International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List), and the information provided in our study will be helpful in future conservation efforts.