The Sandflies of Cyprus (Diptera)

The sandflies of Cyprus have been examined. The following ten species were found: P. papatasii, P. perniciosus var. tobbi, P. chinensis (a local race), P. perfiliewi (rare), P. sergenti, P. alexandri, P. larroussei (rare), P. fallax cypriotica, var. n., P. azizi, sp. n., and P. parroti. Melanic forms of P. parroti were found. Melanism was associated with a reduction in the teeth of the pharynx in the female in the few specimens collected. The race of P. chinensis found on the island differs from those hitherto described. The general composition of the sandfly population of Cyprus is different from that of any other part of the Mediterranean examined. P. major which is common in Palestine, Syria and the Balkans was not found. Canine kala-azar is common on the island. P. perniciosus var. tobbi and a race of P. chinensis should be considered as possible carriers but this point must be determined experimentally.