Psychodidae

Introduction

Also known as:

Sandflies

• Phlebotomus (Old World except UK) and Lutzomyia (New World) are both of major veterinary importance

• Common in the tropics

Recognition

• 1-3mm long

• Resemble miniature mosquitoes

• Hairs on wing margins and veins

Life cycle

• Eggs are laid on the ground or in cracks on floors

• Life cycle takes 1-2 weeks to complete

Pathogenesis

• Males are nuisance flies

• Females suck blood

• Transmit Leishmania spp.
  • Responsible for cutaneous and visceral leishmaniosis in humans, using dogs as reservoir hosts

Control

• Spraying campaigns
  • Mosquito control also reduces sandfly numbers

• Household control methods
  • Fine mesh screens, repellents and sprays