A taxonomic account of the blackfly fauna of Iraq and Iran, including keys for species identification (Diptera: Simuliidae)

Abstract

An account is given of what is so far known of the Simuliidae (blackflies) of Iraq and Iran with the object of providing a baseline for studies on this family of Diptera in both countries. A total of 1002 specimens from the area have been studied and 17 species identified in the material. Illustrated keys are given for the recognition of these species in larval, pupal and adult life stages. The composition and affinities of the simuliid fauna of Iraq-Iran are briefly discussed and a synoptic list is provided for the Simuliidae of the Middle East in general. A lectotype is designated for Simulium (Eusimulium) brachyantherum (Rubtsov) and first descriptions of the male of Simulium (Byssodon) buxtoni Austen and the pupa of Simulium (Nevermannia) brevitarse (Rubtsov) are included.

Keywords:

• Simuliidae
• Blackflies
• Palaearctic
• Iran
• Iraq
• Taxonomy
• Fauna
• Records
• Middle East
• Checklist