- Phlebotomus - Classification
- Class :
- Insecta
- Order :
- Diptera
- Family :
- Psychodidae
Definition
Phlebotomine sandflies are insects. A very hairy type of tiny fly, they are spread throughout Europe during the warm season and throughout the year in tropical countries.
The hematophagous female can transmit diseases, particularly leishmaniasis.
Morphology
Phlebotomine sandflies are insects of the order Diptera. They have 2 wings (Di = 2 and ptera = wing) and 1 pair of halteres. They are 2 to 4 mm long.
Their body is hairy and brownish in colour; their legs are long and thin, and the wings, connected to the thorax, form a V.
Life cycle
Phlebotomine sandflies reproduce in humid areas, on humus-rich wet soils. Only the female bites. Like mosquitoes, the female phlebotomus needs blood for the maturation of its eggs. It is active from dusk until dawn, and is very attracted by diffuse artificial light.
It finds its way into houses and cabanas. The females are active from spring (May/June) to autumn in Europe and throughout the year in tropical zones.