An attempt to prepare a checklist of Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) in Syangja District of mid-hills Nepal

Odonata are fascinating and widespread insects considered bioindicators of aquatic ecosystems. They are studied extensively worldwide. However, limited research has been conducted in various regions of Nepal on Odonata, and there has been no specific study in the Syangja District. Therefore, this study aimed to create a checklist of Odonata explored from Putalibazar and Waling Municipalities of the Syangja District of mid-hills Nepal. Data was collected through direct observation method; along diverse potential habitats such as water bodies, forests, settlements, and agricultural lands. The study documented a total of 33 species of Odonata from 25 genera and eight families. Among these, 20 species were Anisoptera (dragonflies), and 13 were Zygoptera (damselflies). The family Libellulidae had the maximum species richness (N=18), followed by Coenagrionidae (N=5). The study presented only a preliminary checklist of Odonata in the area, suggesting the need for further exploration of the region to discover more species.