Diversity and Abundance of Nonculicid Biting Flies (Diptera) In A Zoo Environment.

ABSTRACT

The diversity of nonculicid biting flies was surveyed in Sunset Zoo, Manhattan, KS, by carbon dioxide-baited traps. A total of 8,399 nonculicid biting-fly females representing 32 species and 5 families were collected. Twenty-one biting midge (Ceratopogonidae Culicoides) and 7 black fly (Simuliidae) species were collected, including new state records of 3 Culicoides and 1 simuliid. The species richness of Culicoides and Simuliidae within the zoo represents 72.4% and 41.2%, respectively, of the fauna known to occur in Kansas. Trap type significantly influenced (P < 0.05) collections of the 5 species analyzed, and trapping period affected 3 species. The diversity and abundance of nonculicid biting flies in the zoo as related to animal health and wellness is discussed.