A recent study has revealed that the climate conditions experienced by dragonfly nymphs underwater significantly influence adult trait diversity, challenging traditional views on biodiversity conservation.

The research analyzed data from 87 dragonfly species across Europe, uncovering strong carryover effects from early life stages to adult traits.

It developed a statistical framework that shows environmental factors during the aquatic juvenile stage, such as water temperature and seasonal variations, have a greater impact on adult traits than conditions faced later on land.

These findings indicate that the effects of climate change on an animal’s traits can begin much earlier in life than previously thought, suggesting a need to alter biodiversity conservation strategies.

Consequently, climate adaptation strategies must consider the conditions faced by species early in life, not just those of adult populations.

This suggests that scientists and policymakers should focus on both juvenile and adult stages for effective climate adaptation and mitigation practices.

Co-author Lesley Lancaster from the University of Aberdeen emphasized that many climate impact predictions focus on observable adult traits, potentially overlooking significant influences from juvenile stages.

Lead author Professor Lars L. Iversen from McGill University highlighted that this research provides new guidelines for predicting climate responses based on both juvenile and adult characteristics.

The study, titled 'Complex Life Cycles Shape the Functional Biogeography of European Dragonflies,' was published in Global Ecology and Biogeography on May 13, 2025, and was funded by various scientific organizations in Canada and Germany.