Investigation of sampling methods for the study of Phlebotomine sandflies in Egypt

Different sampling field techniques were investigated for the study of the natural behaviour of the sand flies in Egypt (South Sinai and Alexandria). Sampling methods were divided into two groups: the first group is techniques for catching alive flies [Active search (Aspirator), CDC-light trap; funnel trap; Fan trap and catches off bait] and the second group is techniques for collecting dead specimens [sticky traps, and illuminated sticky traps (chemical light sticky trap)]. Comparison between the efficiency of the different trapping methods for collecting sandflies indicated that the CDC light trap was the most productive type for species of the genus phlebotomus followed by the illuminated paper traps and then the sticky paper traps. Members of the Sergentomyia group showed to be more attracted to illuminated/sticky paper followed by the sticky paper and then the CDC light traps. In general, sticky paper traps are the most widely used technique for sand fly outdoor collection as it is easy to be used, unexpensive and convenient for the purpose of sandfly surveys.