Phlebotominae

Members of the subfamily Phlebotominae are known outside of the United States by the name sand fly. This subfamily includes numerous genera of blood-feeding (hematophagous) flies, including the primary vectors of leishmaniasis, sandfly fever. In the New World, leishmaniasis is spread by sand flies of the genus Lutzomyia, which are common inhabitants of caves, where they feed on bats. In the Old World, the disease is spread by sand flies of the genus Phlebotomus.

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Female sand flies suck blood from many warm-blooded animals because the blood helps to create eggs. Only female sand flies bite, and use their mouthparts to create a pool of blood, which is then sucked up. They inject histamine to prevent blood clotting, similar to the feeding habits of a female mosquito.

Females lay their eggs in humid soil rich in organic matter. One blood meal can result in the creation of up to 100 eggs.

Sand flies are small (with a body size of about 3mm in length), making them hard to detect. Their bite is sometimes not felt and leaves a small round, reddish bump that starts itching hours or days later. Use of insect repellent is recommended in areas where sand flies are present.