Phlebotomine sand fly survey in the Republic of Moldova: species composition, distribution and host preferences

Abstract Background Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodiae) in the Republic of Moldova have been understudied for decades. Our study provides a first update on their occurrence, species composition and bloodmeal sources after 50 years. Methods During 5 seasons (2013–2017), 58 localities from 20 regions were surveyed presence using CDC light traps manual aspirators. Species identification was done by combination morphological molecular approaches (DNA barcoding, MALDI-TOF MS protein profiling). In engorged females, host blood identified three techniques (RFLP, cytb sequencing peptide mass mapping). Population structure most abundant studied cox 1 haplotyping; phylogenetic analyses ITS2 genetic markers used to resolve relationships other detected species. Results total, 793 collected at 30 (51.7%) 12 Moldova. Three an integrative approach: Phlebotomus papatasi , P. perfiliewi sp. ( Adlerius ), being widespread, markedly anthropophilic based analyses, occurring also indoors showing low population with only five haplotypes detected. Distinct characters ) specimens suggest yet undescribed Conclusions revealed stable fly populations that represent biting nuisance as well potential threat pathogen transmission shall be further studied. Graphical abstract