Demonstration of hybridization between Phlebotomus papatasi (Scopoli) and Phlebotomus bergeroti Parrot

To determine the genetic similarity between Phlebotomus bergeroti and P. papatasi, and to explain the infrequent sympatry of these two species, cross-mating experiments were conducted. Female P. bergeroti interbred with male P. papatasi to produce hybrid offspring. The reciprocal cross, female P. papatasi X male P. bergeroti, failed to produce viable eggs and offspring. The morphology and behavior of the hybrids was intermediate between the two parent species.