Phlebotomus (Euphlebotomus) mascomai n. sp. (Diptera-Psychodidae)

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Parasitology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Sandflies are vectors of various diseases, including leishmaniasis.
• The genus Phlebotomus includes medically important species, with specific subgenera requiring detailed taxonomic study.
• Cave ecosystems harbor unique and often undescribed insect species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a new species of sandfly discovered in limestone caves in Thailand.
• To justify the classification of the new species within the Euphlebotomus subgenus.
• To provide a differential diagnosis between the new species and a known vector species.

Main Methods:

• Morphological examination of male genitalia (paramere, basal lobe).
• Analysis of male genital filaments and female spermathecal duct lengths.
• Molecular analysis of cytochrome b mitochondrial DNA sequences.
• Comparative morphological analysis with Phlebotomus argentipes.

Main Results:

• A new sandfly species, Phlebotomus mascomai, is described from Thailand.
• The species' placement in the Euphlebotomus subgenus is supported by male genitalia, ecological, morphological, and molecular data.
• Distinct morphological characters, including antennal formula and genitalia, differentiate P. mascomai from P. argentipes.

Conclusions:

• Phlebotomus mascomai represents a new addition to the sandfly fauna of Thailand.
• The integrated approach using morphology and molecular data confirms its taxonomic placement.
• Understanding sandfly diversity is crucial for disease vector control and epidemiological studies.