This is by far the most diverse family of damselflies occurring in Alabama and Mississippi, comprising seven genera and 38 species. Coenagrionid nymphs can be found on submerged aquatic vegetation, roots, rocks, etc. in almost every permanent aquatic habitat in our area. Some, such as the Dancers (Argia), are commonly encountered in flowing water; however, most species prefer lentic habitats. As might be expected in such a large group, pond damsel nymphs are extremely variable with regard to body shape, pigmentation, and shape/markings of the caudal gills, and these characters are often very useful in distinguishing the different genera or species within this family.