Blood-feeding host preferences of the isomorphic species Simulium venustum and S. truncatum

Animal-baited traps, using fox, mink, rabbits and ducks, were used in host preference experiments in two habitats (Beach and Woods). A generalized linear model of blood-feeding host preference is presented to test for significant differences between the isomorphic species Simulium venustum and Simulium truncatum. The S. truncatum population peaked before that of S. venustum. On any given day the two species divided their blood-feeding efforts among the different hosts in the same proportions. On the Beach, fox was the preferred host at the beginning of the season, but by the end of the season flies fed with equal frequency on the fox and the mink. In the Woods fox remained the preferred host throughout the season (late May to early July). Possible reasons for these feeding trends are discussed.