Studies on the role of climatological factors in the distribution of phlebotomine sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in semi-arid areas of Rajasthan, India

In rural Rajasthan, India, eight phlebotomine sandfly species were encountered, four of which were found to be adapted to a range of temperatures and relative humidity (RH), namely Phlebotomus papatasi, Sergentomyia punjabensis, S. babu and S. baghdadis. In contrast, P. sergenti, S. christophersi, S. clydie and S. eadithae were confined to a limited range of temperature and RH. Most phlebotomine species were found to be adapted to the rather high temperatures and low RH in the area. Phlebotomine prevalence, recorded during the studies, showed a definite correlation with temperature (p < 0.05) and a moderately negative correlation with RH. The high prevalence of females in higher temperatures indicates their ability to withstand these temperatures, and can be considered a matter of epidemiological importance as it may aid in the transmission of cutaneous leishmaniasis in arid conditions. (C) 1999 Academic Press.