jear2012 Abstract Asir Region in the southwest of Saudi Arabia has been a subject for expansion of agricultural projects, urbanization, which presumably have impact on distribution of phlebotomine sandflies. Few reports are avail- able on sandflies in this region which is an important focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Therefore, this study aimed at updating the species com- position, distribution and periodical fluctuation of sandflies in this region. Specimens were monthly collected by the Center for Disease Control light traps for one year in four localities representing different altitudes. In five other, collections were twice during the year period. Ten species (six Phlebotomus and four Sergentomyia) were identified, of which P. arabicus (32%) was the most common followed by P. bergeroti (29%) and P. sergenti (15%). Of the reported species, S. palestinensis is considered a new record from Asir. Sandflies were more common and maximum biodiversity was observed in lowlands and not in high alti- tudes. At different altitudes, the two commonest species were more active during spring. Sandfly density (sandfly/trap) was directly related to temperature and inversely related to altitude, relative humidity (RH) and wind velocity (P<0.05). To sum up, the distribution and abundance of sandflies in Asir are influenced by a combination of different factors: temperature, RH, wind velocity and altitude. Introduction Phlebotomine sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae) are widespread in the tropics and subtropics (Lane, 1993). They include many potential vectors for both cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and visceral leishmaniasis (VL). CL is an endemic disease in many areas of Saudi Arabia including the Western Provinces (Al-Qurashi et al., 2000; El-Badry et al., 2008). The dis- ease is more common on the foothills and high plateau of Asir Region in the southwest of the Kingdom (Al-Zahrani et al., 1989; Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005). VL infections also recovered from the south-west of the Kingdom (Al-Zahrani et al., 1988a; Ibrahim et al., 1995; Al-Jaser, 2006). Several reports are available on the distribution of the sandfly fauna in several regions of Saudi Arabia (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980, 1982; Killick-Kendrick et al., 1985; Morsy & Al Seghayer, 1992; Abu-Zinada, 1999; Aldawood et al., 2004; Al Barrak, 2005; El-Badry et al., 2009; Doha & Samy, 2010) revealing the presence of 25 species with the domi- nance of P. papatasi (Mustafa et al., 1994). In only three occasions (Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005; Alahmed et al., 2010), the sandflies were surveyed in Asir with 22 species identified. During the past few decades, Saudi Arabia has viewed tremendous efforts in social development and urbanization in all provinces, and insect fauna, particularly sandflies was affected. The expansion of agri- cultural projects, urbanization and development of water resources, lead to creation of new breeding sites for sandflies (Alahmed et al., 2010). The Asir area has also been a subject for various development and tourist projects as well as resettlement programs which presumably have impact on distribution of sandflies. However, few reports (Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005; Alahmed et al., 2010) described sandflies in Asir region although CL has long been recognized as an important public health problem in this area (Al-Zahrani et al., 1988b). Therefore, this study aimed at identifying and updating the sand- fly species composition, their geographical distribution, periodical abun- dance and species diversity in some localities representing different alti- tudes in Asir Region as one of CL-endemic areas in Saudi Arabia. The study could be important for implementing any large-scale control project. Materials and methods Study area Asir Region (19°00′N, 42°00′E to 19°00′N, 43°00′′E) in the south- Correspondence: Mohamed A. Kenawy, Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt. Tel.: +202.24821633 / 24821096 / 24821031, Ext: 711 - Fax: +202.26839622. Mobile: +2.01223540005 / 01111151554. E-mail: mohamedkenawy85@yahoo.com Key words: Sandflies; species composition; species diversity; seasonal abun- dance; Asir Region; Saudi Arabia. Acknowledgements: the authors would like to thank Dr. Bahira El Sawaf, Entomology Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University Cairo, Egypt for helpful comments and suggestions that really improved the manuscript. Received for publication: 21 February 2015. Revision received: 23 March 2015. Accepted for publication: 23 March 2015. ©Copyright M.A. Kenawy et al., 2015 Licensee PAGEPress, Italy Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research 2015; 47:5016 doi:10.4081/jear.2015.5016 This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial License (by-nc 3.0) which permits any noncom- mercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the orig- inal author(s) and source are credited. Distribution and periodicity of sandflies (Diptera: Phlebotominae) along different altitudes in Asir Region, Southwest of Saudi Arabia M.A. Kenawy,1 H.A. Al Ashry,2 M. Shobrak3 1Department of Entomology, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo, Egypt; 2Trap Pest Control and Garden Maintenance Co. Ltd., Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 3Biology Department, Science College, Taif University, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia [page 56] [Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research 2015; 47:5016] Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research 2015; volume 47:5016 No n- co mm er cia l maximum biodiversity was observed in lowlands and not in high alti- No n- co mm er cia l maximum biodiversity was observed in lowlands and not in high alti- tudes. At different altitudes, the two commonest species were more No n- co mm er cia l tudes. At different altitudes, the two commonest species were more active during spring. Sandfly density (sandfly/trap) was directly related to No n- co mm er cia l active during spring. Sandfly density (sandfly/trap) was directly related to temperature and inversely related to altitude, relative humidity (RH) and No n- co mm er cia l temperature and inversely related to altitude, relative humidity (RH) and wind velocity (P<0.05). To sum up, the distribution and abundance of No n- co mm er cia l wind velocity (P<0.05). To sum up, the distribution and abundance of ease is more common on the foothills and high plateau of Asir Region in No n- co mm er cia l ease is more common on the foothills and high plateau of Asir Region inthe southwest of the Kingdom (Al-Zahrani No n- co mm er cia l the southwest of the Kingdom (Al-Zahrani Abdoon, 2005). VL infections also recovered from the south-west of the No n- co mm er cia l Abdoon, 2005). VL infections also recovered from the south-west of the Kingdom (Al-Zahrani No n- co mm er cia l Kingdom (Al-Zahrani Several reports are available on the distribution of the sandfly fauna No n- co mm er cia l Several reports are available on the distribution of the sandfly fauna No n- co mm er cia l in several regions of Saudi Arabia (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980, 1982; No n- co mm er cia l in several regions of Saudi Arabia (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980, 1982; No n- co mm er cia l Correspondence: Mohamed A. Kenawy, Department of Entomology, Faculty No n- co mm er cia l Correspondence: Mohamed A. Kenawy, Department of Entomology, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt. No n- co mm er cia l of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt. Tel.: +202.24821633 / 24821096 / 24821031, Ext: 711 - Fax: +202.26839622. No n- co mm er cia l Tel.: +202.24821633 / 24821096 / 24821031, Ext: 711 - Fax: +202.26839622. Mobile: +2.01223540005 / 01111151554. No n- co mm er cia l Mobile: +2.01223540005 / 01111151554. E-mail: mohamedkenawy85@yahoo.comNo n- co mm er cia l E-mail: mohamedkenawy85@yahoo.com Key words: Sandflies; species composition; species diversity; seasonal abun-No n- co mm er cia l Key words: Sandflies; species composition; species diversity; seasonal abun- us e tropics and subtropics (Lane, 1993). They include many potential vectors us e tropics and subtropics (Lane, 1993). They include many potential vectors for both cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and visceral leishmaniasis (VL). us e for both cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and visceral leishmaniasis (VL).CL is an endemic disease in many areas of Saudi Arabia including the us e CL is an endemic disease in many areas of Saudi Arabia including the Western Provinces (Al-Qurashi us e Western Provinces (Al-Qurashi ease is more common on the foothills and high plateau of Asir Region inus e ease is more common on the foothills and high plateau of Asir Region in on ly on ly Phlebotomine sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae) are widespread in theon ly Phlebotomine sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae) are widespread in the tropics and subtropics (Lane, 1993). They include many potential vectorson ly tropics and subtropics (Lane, 1993). They include many potential vectors for both cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and visceral leishmaniasis (VL). on ly for both cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and visceral leishmaniasis (VL). west of Saudi Arabia has an area of 81,000 km² and a population of 1,913,392 (2010 Census). It is a mountainous area divided into 3 dis- tinct topographical zones: i) Sarawat Asir which is a mountain range extending north-south along the coastal plains of the Red Sea and that rise to almost 3000 m at Jebel Sawdah near Abha the capital; ii) Asir Plateau and iii) Tehamah Plain (Tehama) which is a narrow sandy coastal strip of lowlands at sea level. The Region receives more rainfall than the rest of the country and falling in two seasons: spring (March and April) and summer (June to August). Temperature in Asir high- lands is generally lower than in the other part of the Region and the rest of the kingdom as well. The coastal plain zone is generally charac- terized by lower rainfall, high temperature and relative humidity (RH). The study included nine localities representing different altitudes. Collection of sandflies Sandfly collections were carried out monthly (June 2009 to May 2010) in Abha, Bishah, Muhayil and Tanomah (Al Namas), and twice during the year period in the Sarat Abidah, Rejal Almaa, Balqarn, Al Bark and Tathleth. In each locality, 2-3 collection sites were selected to represent different habitats: wadies (valleys), farms, dumpsites and sheep raising farms. Sandflies were collected by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) miniature light traps (John W Hock Co, Gainesville, FL, USA). The traps (3 traps/site/night) were set before sunset and collect- ed after sunrise next morning. Collected phlebotomines were preserved in 70% alcohol, cleaned in chloral hydrate: phenol (1:1 vol/vol) and then mounted in Puri’s medium for identification using different keys (Lewis, 1982; Lane, 1986; Kakarsulemankhel, 2009, 2010). Along with fly collections, the elevation of the collection site above sea level, the weather temperature, RH and wind velocity (km/h) were recorded. Periodical abundance The periodic abundance of the common Phlebotomus spp. was exam- ined in localities representing lowlands, moderately altitude areas and highlands. Statistical analysis The relations of sandfly density (No/trap) to the locality altitude and weather conditions (temperature, RH and wind velocity) were examined respectively by simple and multiple regression analysis. The slopes of the regression equations were tested for deviation from 0 by t-test. For the four localities that were monthly surveyed during the year period, the diversity of the sandfly based on the Simpson (1- D) and Shannon (H) indices was examined. The Paleontological sta- tistics (Past) software ver. 2.08 was used for data analysis (Hammer et al., 2001). Results Species composition and relative abundance A total of 972 sandflies (454 males and 518 females) of two genera were collected: Phlebotomus which was more common (621 fly: 63.89%) and Sergentomyia (351 fly: 36.11%). Six hundred forty flies (246 males and 394 female) were identified into 10 species (Table 1): 6 Phlebotomus and 4 Sergentomyia. Phlebotomus arabicus was the most common species (32.19%) followed by P. bergeroti (29.38%), P. sergenti (15.00%), P. orientalis (11.09%), P. papatasi (5.94%), S. clydei (3.44%), and P. alexandri (2.03%). S. africana, S. palestinensis and S. christopher- si were rare (0.31% each). Based on the present and previous surveys a complete list of sandfly species (8 Phlebotomus spp. and 15 Sergentomyia spp.) reported in Asir is presented in Table 2. Geographical distribution The species composition varied among the surveyed localities (Figure 1). The reported species were encountered in all altitudes, except S. christophersi and S. africana which were reported only in low lands (<500 m) and P. alexandri and S. palestinensis which were col- lected only from highlands (>2000 m). Sandflies were more common (8 species) and more abundant in lowlands (48.10% of collected flies) than in moderately altitude areas (27.99%) or in high lands (23.9%) (Table 3). Regression analysis indicated that fly density (fly/trap) was inversely related to the altitude (b=–0.003, P<0.05). Species diversity The diversity for the sandfly sampled monthly in the four localities was examined. The results revealed maximum diversity in Muhayil (low altitude) with the highest Simpson index (1-D=0.69) and Shannon index (H=1.48). On the other hand, Abha (high altitude) rep- resented the site with the minimum diversity indices (1-D=0.59 and H=1.10). The rest of the localities exhibited medium biodiversity indices (Figure 2). Effect of weather conditions Regression analysis indicated that the fly density (fly/trap) was directly related to temperature (b=0.413, P<0.01) and inversely related to RH (b=–0.002, P<0.05) and wind velocity (b=–0.170, P<0.05). Periodic abundance The seasonal activity patterns of the two common species (P. arabicus and P. bergeroti) across the different altitudes were examined (Figures 3 [Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research 2015; 47:5016] [page 57] Article Table 1. Relative abundance of reported sandfly species in Asir Region. Genus Species No. % Phlebotomus P. (Phlebotomus) bergeroti Parrot 188 29.38 P. (Phlebotomus) papatasi (Scopoli) 38 5.94 P. (Paraphlebotomus) alexandri Sinton 13 2.03 P. (Paraphlebotomus) sergenti Parrot 96 15.00 P. (Adlerius) arabicus Theodor 206 32.19 P. (Larroussius) orientalis Parrot 71 11.09 Sergentomyia S. (Parrotomyia) africana (Newstead) 2 0.31 S. (Parrotomyia) palestinensis (Adler & Theodor) 2 0.31 S. (Sintonius) christophersi (Sinton) 2 0.31 S. (Sintonius) clydei (Sinton) 22 3.44 Total No. (Male/Female) 640 (246/394) Sex ratio M:F 1:1.60 No n- co mm er cia l spp. was exam- No n- co mm er cia l spp. was exam- ined in localities representing lowlands, moderately altitude areas and No n- co mm er cia l ined in localities representing lowlands, moderately altitude areas and The relations of sandfly density (No/trap) to the locality altitude No n- co mm er cia l The relations of sandfly density (No/trap) to the locality altitude and weather conditions (temperature, RH and wind velocity) were No n- co mm er cia l and weather conditions (temperature, RH and wind velocity) were examined respectively by simple and multiple regression analysis. No n- co mm er cia l examined respectively by simple and multiple regression analysis. The slopes of the regression equations were tested for deviation from No n- co mm er cia l The slopes of the regression equations were tested for deviation from 0 by t-test. For the four localities that were monthly surveyed during No n- co mm er cia l 0 by t-test. For the four localities that were monthly surveyed during the year period, the diversity of the sandfly based on the Simpson (1- No n- co mm er cia l the year period, the diversity of the sandfly based on the Simpson (1- D) and Shannon (H) indices was examined. The Paleontological sta- No n- co mm er cia l D) and Shannon (H) indices was examined. The Paleontological sta- tistics (Past) software ver. 2.08 was used for data analysis (HammerNo n- co mm er cia l tistics (Past) software ver. 2.08 was used for data analysis (Hammer Species diversity No n- co mm er cia l Species diversityThe diversity for the sandfly sampled monthly in the four localities No n- co mm er cia l The diversity for the sandfly sampled monthly in the four localities was examined. The results revealed maximum diversity in Muhayil No n- co mm er cia l was examined. The results revealed maximum diversity in Muhayil (low altitude) with the highest Simpson index (1-D=0.69) and No n- co mm er cia l (low altitude) with the highest Simpson index (1-D=0.69) and us e than in moderately altitude areas (27.99%) or in high lands (23.9%) us e than in moderately altitude areas (27.99%) or in high lands (23.9%)(Table 3). Regression analysis indicated that fly density (fly/trap) was us e (Table 3). Regression analysis indicated that fly density (fly/trap) wasinversely related to the altitude (b=–0.003, P<0.05). us e inversely related to the altitude (b=–0.003, P<0.05). Species diversityus e Species diversity on ly (Figure 1). The reported species were encountered in all altitudes, on ly (Figure 1). The reported species were encountered in all altitudes, S. africana on lyS. africana which were reported only in low on ly which were reported only in lowP. alexandri on lyP. alexandri and on lyand on ly S. palestinensis on ly S. palestinensis lected only from highlands (>2000 m). Sandflies were more common (8on ly lected only from highlands (>2000 m). Sandflies were more common (8 species) and more abundant in lowlands (48.10% of collected flies)on ly species) and more abundant in lowlands (48.10% of collected flies) than in moderately altitude areas (27.99%) or in high lands (23.9%)on ly than in moderately altitude areas (27.99%) or in high lands (23.9%) [page 58] [Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research 2015; 47:5016] and 4). Generally, sandflies were more active during spring months (March to May; mean temperature=30°C, RH=24%, wind=6 km/h) with moderate activity during summer (June to August; mean tempera- ture=36°C, RH=35%, wind=7 km/h) and autumn months (September to November; mean temperature=29°C, RH=33%, wind=9 km/h) and very low density or absent during winter months (December to February; mean temperature=20°C, RH=47%, wind=14 km/h). Discussion and conclusions The present study is a report of the results of an entomological sur- vey of sandflies in Asir region. During the study, 10 sandfly species were identified: 6 belong to genus Phlebotomus and 4 to genus Sergentomyia. Phlebotomus spp. were dominating (ca 96%), which is a Palaearctic feature (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980), its distribution is in agreement with the previous observation (Alahmed et al., 2010). All the encountered species in this study were reported earlier from Asir region (Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; Abdelwahab & Abdoon 2005; Alahmed et al., 2010) except S. palestinen- sis, which is considered a new record from this region, and it occurs only at high altitude (Tanomah). The species was previously reported from Al Baha, Makkah, Al Madinah and Jizan (Lewis & Büttiker, 1982). Of the identified Phlebotomus species (612 fly), P. arabicus (ca 34%) and P. bergeroti (ca 31%) were the commonest species followed by P. sergenti, P. orientalis, P. papatasi and P. alexandri. P. bergeroti was reported as a rare species in Saudi Arabia (Nadim et al., 1979; Büttiker et al., 1982), however, Abdelwahab & Abdoon (2005) and Alahmed et al. (2010) indicated that in Asir, P bergeroti is the most abundant species while P. sergenti is second in abundance. In Al Baha, P. bergeroti is also the most abundant constituting 41.7% of the collected flies (Doha & Samy, 2010). Phlebotomus alexandri revealed also very low density (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005; Alahmed et al., 2010). Phlebotomus ara- Article Table 2. A list of sandfly species reported in Asir Region during the present (1) and previous surveys (2. Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; 3. Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005; 4. Alahmed et al., 2010). Species Source 1 2 3 4 Phlebotomus (Phlebotomus) papatasi (Scopoli) X X X X P. (Phlebotomus) bergeroti Parrot X X X X P. (Paraphlebotomus) alexandri Sinton X X X X P. (Paraphlebotomus) kazeruni Theodor & Mesghali X P. (Paraphlebotomus) saevus Parrot & Martin X P. (Paraphlebotomus) sergenti Parrot X X X P. (Larroussius) orientalis Parrot X X X X P. (Adlerius) arabicus Theodor X X X X Sergentomyia (Sergentomyia) antennata (Newstead) X X S. (Sergentomyia) fallax (Parrot) X X S. (Sergentomyia) taizi Lewis X S. (Sergentomyia) schwetzi (Adler, Theodor & Parrot) X S. (Sintonius) tiberiadis (Adler, Theodor & Lourie) X X S. (Sintonius) adleri (Theodor) X X S. (Sintonius) calcarata (Parrot) X X S. (Sintonius) christophersi (Sinton) X X X S. (Sintonius) clydei (Sinton) X X X S. (Parrotomyia) palestinensis (Adler & Theodor) X S. (Parrotomyia) africana (Newstead) X X X S. (Parrotomyia) magna (Sinton) X S. (Grassomyia) dreyfussi Parrot X X S. (Grassomyia) squamipleuris (Newstead) X S. (Neophlebotomus) sonyae Lewis X Table 3. Distribution of sandfly species in different altitudes of the monthly surveyed localities. Lowlands Moderate altitude Highlands <500 m >1000 m >2000 m Locality Muhayil Bishah Tanomah Abha No. of species 8 6 6 4 Collected flies: No. (%) 165 (48.10) 96 (27.99) 34 (9.91) 48 (13.99) No n- co mm er cia l X X X X No n- co mm er cia l X X X X No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l X No n- co mm er cia l X X No n- co mm er cia l X No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l X X X No n- co mm er cia l X X X X X X X No n- co mm er cia l X X X X No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l X X X X No n- co mm er cia l X X X X X X No n- co mm er cia l X X No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l X X No n- co mm er cia l X X X No n- co mm er cia l X No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l (Adler, Theodor & Parrot) No n- co mm er cia l (Adler, Theodor & Parrot) X No n- co mm er cia l X (Adler, Theodor & Lourie) No n- co mm er cia l (Adler, Theodor & Lourie) X X No n- co mm er cia l X X No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l X X No n- co mm er cia l X X X X No n- co mm er cia l X X No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l (Sinton) No n- co mm er cia l (Sinton) X X XNo n- co mm er cia l X X XNo n- co mm er cia l X X XNo n- co mm er cia l X X X us e us e 1 2 3 4 us e 1 2 3 4 X X X X us e X X X X us e us e X X X Xus e X X X X X X X Xus e X X X X on lyTable 2. A list of sandfly species reported in Asir Region during the present (1) and previous surveys (2. Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; 3. on lyTable 2. A list of sandfly species reported in Asir Region during the present (1) and previous surveys (2. Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; 3. on ly on ly 1 2 3 4on ly 1 2 3 4 bicus is rare (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005), in contrast to our findings and that of Alahmed et al. (2010). Phlebotomus orientalis was consid- ered rare (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005), but represented 5.85% of the collected flies in Abha (Alahmed et al., 2010) and 12% in the present study. Among the Sergentomyia species (28 sandflies), S. clydei was dominating (ca 79%), while S. christophersi, S. africana and S. palesti- nensis each represented about 7%, numbers similar to previous find- ings. S. christophersi, S. clydei, S. africana numbered 37, 31 and 24, respectively out of 558 collected sandflies (Alahmed et al., 2010). Several investigators (Büttiker et al., 1982; Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; Aldawood et al., 2004; Al Barrak, 2005; El-Badry et al., 2008) reported P. papatasi as a dominant species in Saudi Arabia. However in this study, P. papatasi was not common and represented only about 6% of the col- lected sandflies. Only 13 specimens (2.38%) (Alahmed et al., 2010) and 19 specimens (0.95%) (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980) of P. papatasi were pre- viously collected in Asir. This confirms the marked affinity of sandfly fauna of Asir (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005) as in southern Sinai, Egypt (El Sawaf et al., 1987) where P. bergeroti and P. sergenti constituted the highest percentage of collected sandflies whereas P. papatasi was a poorly represented species. Sandflies were more common and abundant in lowlands respect to higher altitudes. The lowest abundance was observed in highlands in agreement with the previous observation (Büttiker et al., 1982). In Asir region (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005), the highest abundance of Phlebotomus sandflies was found in Tehamah foothills in lowland and in the coastal plain while the lowest fly densities were reported at high- er altitudes in Sarawat Mountains and Asir plateau. This was con- firmed in the present study by regression analysis, which indicated that the density of flies inversely related to the altitude (P<0.05). Meanwhile, the results revealed maximum diversity indices in Muhayil (lowland) and minimum ones in Abha (highland) due to the low rich- ness of the species in this locality (n=4 spp). This may indicate that the lowlands are the most favourable sites for the breeding and activity of sandflies. Lower fly abundance at higher altitudes may be due to low temperature (annual mean=21.6°C), fog and strong winds (annual mean=11.92 km/h) in comparison with lowlands (annual mean of temp=32.03°C and of wind velocity=6.43 km/h) It was reported (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005) that the species com- position of the sandflies is not affected by altitude, although it was found (Büttiker et al., 1982) that the species spectrum shows a tenden- cy for more species to occur at higher altitudes than in the Tehamah districts (lowlands). Moreover, in Sinai, Egypt (El Sawaf et al., 1987), a remarkable difference in sandfly species composition at different alti- tudes was observed. The present study indicated that although most sandfly species were encountered in all altitudes, some species were found restricted to certain altitudes: S. christophersi and S. africana in lowlands and P. alexandri and S. palestinensis in highlands. This agrees with previous research (Büttiker et al., 1982) that is P. papatasi and P. bergeroti prefer lower altitudes whereas P. orientalis and P. arabicus are species of higher altitudes. The knowledge of the seasonal activity of sandflies is of importance in predicting the period of maximum risk of Leishmania transmission and for carrying out an effective control program. Results indicated that in different altitudes, Phlebotomus flies were more active during spring, with moderate activity during summer and autumn and very low density or absent during winter seasons. Almost similar observations [Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research 2015; 47:5016] [page 59] Article Figure 1. The surveyed localities and sandfly species distribution in Asir Region. No n- co mm er cia l No n- co mm er cia l u se and for carrying out an effective control program. Results indicated that us e and for carrying out an effective control program. Results indicated that in different altitudes, us e in different altitudes, spring, with moderate activity during summer and autumn and very low us e spring, with moderate activity during summer and autumn and very low density or absent during winter seasons. Almost similar observationsus e density or absent during winter seasons. Almost similar observations on ly with previous research (Büttiker on ly with previous research (Büttiker prefer lower altitudes whereas on ly prefer lower altitudes whereas species of higher altitudes. on lyspecies of higher altitudes. The knowledge of the seasonal activity of sandflies is of importance on lyThe knowledge of the seasonal activity of sandflies is of importance in predicting the period of maximum risk of on ly in predicting the period of maximum risk of and for carrying out an effective control program. Results indicated thaton ly and for carrying out an effective control program. Results indicated that Phlebotomus on ly Phlebotomus [page 60] [Journal of Entomological and Acarological Research 2015; 47:5016] were previously reported (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005) where the highest abundance of sandflies was recorded during the spring and summer (March to September) and the lowest fly abundance was throughout the period from November to February. Morsy et al. (1995) found that the greatest number of P. papatasi in Riyadh occurred most commonly during the summer season with two peaks in June and September. During the winter season no insects were found and then the population density started to appear again from March. Regression analysis indicated that fly density was directly related to the weather temperature (P<0.01) and inversely related to RH and wind velocity (P<0.05). Previous analysis (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005) showed a significantly positive correlation between fly density and temperature and negative correlation with RH at Asir foothills. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an endemic disease in many areas of Saudi Arabia (Al-Qurashi, 2000; El Hassan, 2013) and is widespread in villagers of the Asir plateau (Al-Zahrani et al., 1988b). The disease is more common on the foothills and high plateau of Asir region (Al- Zahrani et al., 1989). Visceral Leishamniasis infections occur in Jizan (Al-Zahrani et al., 1988a; Ibrahim et al., 1995; Al-Jaser, 2006). Of the reported sandfly species, several are implicated as vectors of leishmaniasis in Asir and other regions of the kingdom. - P. bergeroti is assumed as a secondary vector of leishmaniasis in Asir mountain plateau (Büttiker et al., 1982) and as a suspected vec- tor of L. tropica (anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis) in Makka (Lewis, 1982) and in some African countries as well as in Egypt, Iran, Oman and Yemen (Maroli et al, 2013). Based on dominance of this species and the recorded increase in the number of leishmaniasis cases after few months of its peak of abundance (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005) may highlight its role as a probable vector of Leishmania in Asir area. Recently, P. bergeroti was found positive for Leishmania-like flagellate infection in Al Baha (Doha & Samy, 2010). However, studies are needed to clarify the possible role of this highly abundant species in Leishmania transmission in Asir where this dis- ease is widely spread; - P. papatasi is the main vector of CL in many parts of Saudi Arabia (Lewis & Büttiker, 1982; Mondragon-Shem et al., 2015), may be the major vector in Al Qassim Region (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980; Al Barrak, 2005) and is a proven vector of L. tropica in many countries includ- ing Yemen, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, Iran, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia (Maroli et al., 2013). Moreover, P. papatasi, was found to be a proven vector of L. major (zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis) in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt (Samy et al., 2014). Although, P. papatasi is the most widespread and dominant species in all investigated areas of Saudi Arabia (Mustafa et al., 1994; Alahmed et al., 2010), however, in the present study this species was not common (6% of collected sandflies). This may indicate that this species has little or no role in Leishmania transmission in Asir Region. This assumption agrees with what has been found in Kuwait where P. papatasi did not appear as an urban species and was not regarded as a possible vector of leishmania in that country (Abdelwahab & Abdoon, 2005); - P. sergenti is a proven vector of L. tropica in the southern region of Saudi Arabia (Al-Zahrani et al., 1988b; Doha & Samy, 2010), and in several other countries (Maroli et al., 2013); - P. alexandri and P. orientalis are suspected to be the main vectors of L. donovani (VL) in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia (Al- Zahrani et al., 1997). The role of the two species in transmitting L. donovani is fully documented in other countries. P. alexandri is the main vector from North Africa to western China (Lane, 1993) while P. orientalis is a proven vector in Sudan (Maroli et al., 2013); - P. arabicus was found naturally infected with Leishmania-like flagel- lates in Al Baha (Doha & Samy, 2010). In conclusion, the present findings indicate that the distribution and abundance of sandflies in Asir Region are influenced by a combination of ecological and topographical factors (temperature, RH, wind velocity and altitude). The obtained results could be important for the success- ful implementation of leishmaniasis control programs. Among the reported species, S. palestinensis is considered a new record from Asir. Article Figure 2. Sandfly diversity indices for monthly sampled localities. Figure 3. Periodical abundance of Phebotomus bergeroti at differ- ent altitudes (Low: Muhayil; Moderate: Bishah; High: Tanomah and Abha localities). Figure 4. Periodical abundance of Phlebotomus arabicus at differ- ent altitudes (Low: Muhayil; Moderate: Bishah; High: Tanomah and Abha localities). No n- co mm er cia l transmission in Asir where this dis- No n- co mm er cia l transmission in Asir where this dis- is the main vector of CL in many parts of Saudi Arabia No n- co mm er cia l is the main vector of CL in many parts of Saudi Arabia ., 2015), may be the No n- co mm er cia l ., 2015), may be the major vector in Al Qassim Region (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980; Al Barrak, No n- co mm er cia l major vector in Al Qassim Region (Lewis & Büttiker, 1980; Al Barrak, in many countries includ- No n- co mm er cia l in many countries includ- ing Yemen, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, Iran, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia No n- co mm er cia l ing Yemen, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, Iran, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia , was found to be a proven No n- co mm er cia l , was found to be a proven (zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis) in the Sinai No n- co mm er cia l (zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis) in the Sinai ., 2014). Although, No n- co mm er cia l ., 2014). Although, P. papatasi No n- co mm er cia l P. papatasi most widespread and dominant species in all investigated areas of No n- co mm er cia l most widespread and dominant species in all investigated areas of ., 1994; Alahmed No n- co mm er cia l ., 1994; Alahmed et al No n- co mm er cia l et al the present study this species was not common (6% of collectedNo n- co mm er cia l the present study this species was not common (6% of collected sandflies). This may indicate that this species has little or no role inNo n- co mm er cia l sandflies). This may indicate that this species has little or no role inNo n- co mm er cia l u se us e us e o nlyon ly on ly on ly Figure 2. Sandfly diversity indices for monthly sampled localities. on ly Figure 2. 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DOHA S.A., SAMY A.M., 2010 - Bionomics of phlebotomine sandfliesNo n- co mm er cia l DOHA S.A., SAMY A.M., 2010 - Bionomics of phlebotomine sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in the province of Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia. -No n- co mm er cia l (Diptera: Psychodidae) in the province of Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia. - LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1982 - Insects of Saudi Arabia. The taxono- No n- co mm er cia l LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1982 - Insects of Saudi Arabia. The taxono-my and distribution of Saudi Arabian phlebotomine sandflies No n- co mm er cia l my and distribution of Saudi Arabian phlebotomine sandflies(Diptera: Psychodidae). - Fauna of Saudi Arabia 4: 353-397. No n- co mm er cia l (Diptera: Psychodidae). - Fauna of Saudi Arabia 4: 353-397. MAROLI M., FELICIANGELI M.D., BICHAUD L., CHARRE, R..N., No n- co mm er cia l MAROLI M., FELICIANGELI M.D., BICHAUD L., CHARRE, R..N., us e (Diptera: Psychodidae). - Bull. Br. Mus. Nat. Hist. (Ent.) 45: 121-209. us e (Diptera: Psychodidae). - Bull. Br. Mus. Nat. Hist. (Ent.) 45: 121-209. LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1980 - Insects of Saudi Arabia, Diptera: us e LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1980 - Insects of Saudi Arabia, Diptera:Fam. Psychodidae, subfamily: Phlebotominae. - Fauna of Saudi us e Fam. Psychodidae, subfamily: Phlebotominae. - Fauna of Saudi Arabia 2: 252-282.us e Arabia 2: 252-282. LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1982 - Insects of Saudi Arabia. The taxono-us e LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1982 - Insects of Saudi Arabia. The taxono- my and distribution of Saudi Arabian phlebotomine sandfliesus e my and distribution of Saudi Arabian phlebotomine sandflies on ly Bull. Br. Mus. Nat. Hist. (Ent.) 52: 1-35. on ly Bull. Br. Mus. Nat. Hist. (Ent.) 52: 1-35. on ly LANE R.P., 1993 - Sandflies (Phlebotomine). In: LANE R.P., CROSSKEY on ly LANE R.P., 1993 - Sandflies (Phlebotomine). In: LANE R.P., CROSSKEY R.W. (Eds.), Medical insects and arachnids. - Chapman and Hall, on lyR.W. (Eds.), Medical insects and arachnids. - Chapman and Hall, LEWIS D. J., 1982 - A taxonomic review of the genus on ly LEWIS D. J., 1982 - A taxonomic review of the genus (Diptera: Psychodidae). - Bull. Br. Mus. Nat. Hist. (Ent.) 45: 121-209.on ly (Diptera: Psychodidae). - Bull. Br. Mus. Nat. Hist. (Ent.) 45: 121-209. LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1980 - Insects of Saudi Arabia, Diptera: on ly LEWIS D. J., BÜTTIKER W., 1980 - Insects of Saudi Arabia, Diptera: