Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) in the State of Pernambuco

Abstract

Introduction: Phlebotomine sand flies are small insects of great medical relevance. This article presents an updated list of the phlebotomine sand flies occurring in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil.

Methods: A review of literature published since the 1940s up to May 2010 was conducted and voucher material deposited in reference collections were studied.

Results: A total of 37 phlebotomine species have previously been reported as occurring in Pernambuco, but the record of six species needs confirmation.

Conclusions: This work provides an updated list of phlebotomine sand flies of Pernambuco, with some notes on their taxonomy, ecology, distribution and epidemiological relevance.