Phlebotomine sandfly (Diptera: Psychodidae) fauna survey in an American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) focus in Baturité, Ceará State, northeast Brazil.

Abstract

From October until July 1991, CDC miniature light traps were set up and man and animal-landing and biting catches were made in 100 different catching zones, in different habitats, throughout the ACL focus of the Serra de Baturité. Female Lutzomyia whitmani and Lu. wellcomei appeared to be highly anthropophilic and were the most prevalent species in man-landing catches in peridomestic sites. Most Lu. migonei were attracted to animals, especially mules. Seasonal fluctuations and habitat preference were noted for the principal populations present.