[Detection of entomopathogen nematode [EPN - sand flies (Phlebotomus tobbi)] caught in the wild in Aydin, Kusadasi town and its assessment as a biological control agent]. / Kusadasi, Aydin'da Dogadan Yakalanan Kum Sineklerinde (Phlebotomus tobbi) Saptanan Entomopatojen Nematod [EPN] ve Biyolojik Kontrol Ajani Olarak Kullaniminin Degerlendirilmesi.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: In this study, the midgut of the sand flies investigated with direct method for the presence of parasites and other organisms. METHODS: Wild sand flies collected in Kusadasi Town-Aydin, were dissected and midgut contents were examined by light microscopy. After midgut dissection, the head and genitalia of sand fly specimens were clarified and mounted for species identification. RESULT: During the study, a total of 1027 sand flies were dissected. Eight and two species belonging to Phlebotomus and Sergentomyia genera were determined, respectively. Phlebotomus tobbi was found to be most abundant species (61.34%). A third stage of infective Entomopathogen Nematode belonging to Steinernematidae family was observed in the hemocoel of one specimen of P. tobbi during the dissection process. CONCLUSION: This is the first finding related to entomopathogen nematodes found in sand flies in Turkey. In the study, the sand fly fauna was determined in Kusadasi Town. For the control of sand flies, entomopathogenic nematodes which are not harmful for non-target organisms, can be used instead of chemical insecticides that can cause unknown damage in the environment.