Ugh, what a blow. Yesterday, when I went to feed them, I found that the nymph I had written about in my post before last—saying it would probably emerge today or tomorrow—was dead. Judging by the left side of its body, which looked as if it had been torn out, it seems it fell victim to cannibalism once again.
The previous victim of cannibalism was a slower-growing individual, whose development was uncertain anyway, so I could more or less accept it. But this time, it was right on the verge of emerging, so I feel really frustrated. I’ve been feeding them properly, mind you.
When I picked it up, its face had already taken on a dragonfly-like appearance, and the wing buds were swollen—clearly ready to emerge. (Photo omitted because it’s gruesome.) Apparently, one of the nymphs that recently molted into the final instar is a particularly aggressive individual. Whenever my wife moves the tank during cleaning, and the nymphs swim around in the water, this one seizes the opportunity to snap at them.
So now only two remain, and I’m nervously watching, hoping the last one doesn’t get eaten as well.
Tonight I have a work-related dinner. No wine for me this time.