Odonata attracted by light – a new topic for myth-busters

Six Odonata species were collected during night light trapping on the Mambilla Plateau, Taraba State Nigeria. Being predominantly diurnal insects, odonates captured in light traps have always been considered as an anomaly. The new data initiated an extensive interrogation of all records on Odonata collected near artificial light sources. A total of 415 records (402 published and 13 new) are presented here with a summary of previous discussions and new discussion points. The general conclusion is that odonates are mainly confused by, rather than attracted to the light. New avenues for further research in this field are suggested based on previous important studies undertaken on Odonata morphology and physiology.