The Biology of California Phlebotomus (Diptera: Psychodidae) Under Laboratory Conditions1

Abstract

Laboratory colonies of 3 species (P. vexator occidentis Fairchild & Hertig, P. stewarti Mangabeira & Galindo, and P. californicus Fairchild & Hertig) were established and many aspects of their life-cycles were elucidated. Larvae were fed on a variety of animal feces. The life cycle was completed in 1–2 months depending on the temperature. Females of the 3 species fed readily on a variety of cold-blooded vertebrates; repletion required more than one hour. Oviposition required a moist substratum and high atmospheric humidity. Eggs were deposited singly or in small batches over a period of hours or days. Fecundity was related to the amount of blood ingested, and high fertility on multiple or prolonged mating. Both sexes mated more than once. A single mating was usually short (3–5 min.). Courtship behavior was exhibited by the male with occasional epigamic participation by the female. Adult longevity was promoted by high humidity, low temperature and food. Sandflies exhibited facultative diapause in the fourth-instar larva. Diapause primarily was induced by low temperature but factors intrinsic to eggs, larvae or adults were also involved. The number of progeny entering diapause was intimately related to rearing temperature and season. With minor exceptions, it could be terminated by elevating the rearing temperature to 28°C or higher.