This is a dragonfly nymph (larvae). There are many different kinds of dragonflies in Missouri, and I’m not a bug expert. So, I won’t try to guess which dragonfly this little guy will transition into.

A dip net strung for minnows was used to catch this nymph. It was in a stream with clear running water, along with some underwater vegetation.

Although the dragonfly nymph looks scary, it won’t bite you. Dragonflies catch and eat mosquitoes.

AARON HORRELL is owner of Painted Wren Art Gallery in Cape Girardeau. He is a Bollinger County native.