Diversity and distribution of blackflies (Diptera: Simuliidae) of the Tormes river basin (western Spain)

To enhance the partial knowledge on blackfly (Diptera: Simuliidae) fauna in Spain it is crucial to collect all available data this group better understand their ecology and distribution over years. This study presents from samples collected along Tormes river basin (western Spain) during years 1988, 1989 1996 then stored at University of Salamanca. As a result research stay, total 19 species belonging 3 genera (Prosimulium, Metacnephia Simulium) 5 Simulium subgenera (Boophthora, Eusimulium, Nevermannia, Wilhelmia) were identified after examining 64% material, representing 35% known Spain. In addition, 14 are reported for first time provinces area. Further sampling blackflies foreseen near future order check if composition determined last two decades 20 th century has changed. aim gains importance as consequence haematophagous having been found, relevant both public health animal welfare, not only because discomfort caused by bites but also potential vectors disease-causing agents animals humans.