Lutzomyia pseudolongipalpis: the first new species within the longipalpis (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) complex from La Rinconada, Curarigua, Lara State, Venezuela

Abstract

Lutzomyia pseudolongipalpis, the first new sand fly species within the longipalpis complex, is described based on females and males from La Rinconada, Curarigua, Lara State, Venezuela. Similar to Lutzomyia longipalpis sensu lato, females of the new species show spermathecae with 8-10 annulations and cibarial armature with 8-12 horizontal teeth. However, L. pseudolongipalpis females show conspicuous vertical cibarial teeth, large stipites and wing vein sections, round cerci, and short and broad valvifers that separate them from L. longipalpis s. l. females. L. pseudolongipalpis and L. longipalpis s. l. males are isomorphic, both having parameres with two curved setae on a simple tubercle. The analysis of morphometric characters and their diagnostic value is in progress.