[Annual fluctuations of Phlebotomus populations (Diptera, Phlebotomidae) in the province of Grenada (Spain)]

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Medical Entomology
• Vector Ecology

Context:

• Sandflies are vectors of various diseases, including leishmaniasis.
• Understanding sandfly population dynamics is crucial for disease control strategies.
• Granada, Spain, is an area where sandfly-borne diseases are a public health concern.

Purpose:

• To investigate the annual population dynamics of sandflies in Granada, Spain.
• To identify seasonal activity patterns of key sandfly species.
• To provide data for informed vector control interventions.

Summary:

• A year-long study in Granada, Spain, analyzed sandfly populations using oiled paper traps.
• Key species identified were *Sergentomyia minuta*, *Phlebotomus perniciosus*, and *Phlebotomus ariasi*.
• *S. minuta* displayed a monophasic population curve with peak activity from July to September.
• *P. perniciosus* and *P. ariasi* showed a diphasic pattern, with activity peaks at the beginning and end of the warm season.

Impact:

• This research provides valuable insights into the seasonal activity of medically important sandfly species in southeastern Spain.
• Findings can aid in optimizing the timing and targeting of vector control measures against leishmaniasis vectors.
• The study contributes to the ecological understanding of sandfly populations in the Mediterranean region.