I am impressed by the biodiversity found in the area. The verity of species which one can investigate from. I am specifically interested in investigating the Dragonfly larvae (immature stage), which can be located in the wetlands of Isimangaliso. I’m not a dragonfly lover or any insect for that fact; however it’s just simply something I’m willing to look into. I am also interested in investigating the element mercury and its effect on the biodiversity of the area.

FACTS ABOUT MERCURY...
Mercury is a heavy metal from group 12 of the periodic table, along with Zn and Cd. Mercury (Hg) is a globally distributed contaminant/ pollutant that can harm human and wildlife health. It is currently one of the most serious contaminants in water. Mercury
Feeding
Dragonflies as larva can be seen to feed on tadpoles or small fish. As adults they are seen to eat small insects, primarily mosquitoes, and thus can be considered useful for controlling the mosquito populations. Dragonflies are carnivorous in both larval and adult stages.
Reproduction
Dragonflies through its reproductive or growth stages happen to go through three stages of development: egg, naiad (larval) and adult. The dragonfly egg is laid in water and it is expected to hatch in two to three weeks after being laid. During its larval stage it is called a naiad. It lives in the water and uses internal gills to breathe. It can live in the water as a naiad for two to three years. When it is ready to become an adult it begins to crawl out of the water and shed its skin. As an adult, it can live for over a year if it is able to migrate away from cold environments.
Threats
They are preyed on by Game fish, frogs, birds, beetles, and other dragonflies.
Range
The Dragonflies are particularly abundant in southern Africa and can also be found across southern Europe and parts of the Middle
They moult and grow over the course of 1–4 or more years, all the time eating other aquatic insects, tadpoles, and small fish. They stay in the same stream or pond as they grow to maturity. These life-history characteristics are important because they link with two important influences on mercury risk: the landscape (where you live) and the food web (what you eat). My investigation tests how dragonfly larvae can serve as indicators of ecosystem health. The data collected through my research will be valuable or of assistance in providing the foundation in further characterizing the risk and transfer of mercury around food webs. To assist in determining the reason for possible extinction of dragonflies, and at the same time insuring South Africa’s game park biodiversity. To also find better conservation methods for our