Odonata (order of insects) refers to the group of dragonflies (Anisoptera) and damselflies (Zygoptera). The term was coined from the Greek ?d??to? (?d???), odontos (tooth) apparently in reference to insects' teeth on their mandibles. While the word "dragonfly" is sometimes used to refer to all members of the Odonata order, "odonate" is the more preferred term as it also avoids ambiguity or clearly distinguishes the true dragonflies from the damselflies whose wings are held along while at rest.
Odonates have large (relative to their body size) well-developed compound eyes that make up the most of their heads. They have characteristic elongated abdomens and legs that they use to catch their food (prey, usually insects) while in flight. Their wings are long and transparent and they possess two ocelli and short antennae.
Odonates are described as aquatic insects. They live aquatic or semi-aquatic lives in the earlier parts of their life cycle. As adults, they are also most often seen near bodies of water. They are carnivorous insects that typically prey on other, albeit smaller, insects.
This category features various resource sites dealing with damselflies and dragonflies, including surveys, species profiles, images, and websites of enthusiasts or scientific groups and organizations.