If you are interested in allowing these creatures some space in your pond, observe where egg laying is occuring and make some allowance for this when you perform any maintenance. Larvae prey mainly on other aquatic insects, such as mosquito larvae or even other odonate larvae. Larger larvae may prey on fish fry. In turn, dragonflies are preyed on by a number of species, including fish and frogs. They may serve as hosts for certain aquatic mites and avian parasites.
Many species live among the aquatic vegetation.
A damselfly larva is characterized by 3 fin-like appendages, called lamellae, at the end of its abdomen, The lamellae are important for respiration. Compared to damselfly larvae, dragonfly larvae are broader and less delicate looking. Dragonfly larvae lack the lamellae of the damselflies, relying on foliations in the rectal area for respiration. As with all insects, the larvae undergo a series of molts as they grow and develop. Most will spend at least one winter in your pond and have to suffer through any maintenance activities you perform.