Dragonflies have an immature nymphal stage called the naiad that lives underwater. They have specialized mouthparts that enable them to feed on their aquatic food source (aquatic invertebrates, or even small fish and tadpoles!). Their lower lip, called the labium, is double-hinged and possesses spines that ensnare their prey. When not in use, it is folded beneath the head and thorax. This apparatus is dispatched with lightning speed, returning the unsuspecting victim to the naiad's sharp mandibles, which cut the prey into edible pieces.

They frequently feed on mosquito larvae and other aquatic invertebrates during development. As flying adults, dragonflies continue to feed on adult mosquitoes on the wing. As such, dragonflies provide a wonderful example of biological control, since mosquitoes are part of their natural diet.

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