Innovative trap approaches for studying Phlebotomus papatasi: Emphasizing color and position

Phlebotomine sand flies are important vectors of leishmaniasis globally. Sticky traps are commonly used tools for studying the biology and ecology of Phlebotomus papatasi sand flies. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of colored sticky traps placed under different conditions for capturing P. papatasi in southern Iran.

Sand fly populations in Shiraz County, Fars Province, were sampled monthly using sticky traps of seven different colors positioned horizontally and vertically. Non-parametric statistical tests, including the Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U test, Poisson Regression model, Chi-square test, and Wilcoxon signed-rank test, were used to compare the median numbers of sand fly specimens attracted to differently colored sticky traps under various conditions and orientations.

A total of 2619 sand flies, including four species, were collected, with P. papatasi being the most abundant. Male sand flies outnumbered females. The orientation and color of sticky traps significantly influenced capture rates, with vertical traps attracting more sand flies than horizontal traps. Orange, blue, and white traps were the most effective, while black traps were the least successful. Orange traps performed best under artificial light, while blue, orange, and white traps were most effective in dark night conditions. Vertical traps generally captured more males, while horizontal traps captured more females, particularly with specific colors.

The study highlights the importance of trap color and orientation in attracting sand flies. Understanding sand fly visual ecology and color preferences can improve trapping techniques, emphasizing the importance of careful trap design and color selection to enhance vector surveillance.