Wing geometric morphometrics is effective to separate sand fly species (Diptera, Psychodidae, Phlebotominae) related with leishmaniasis transmission in Mexico

Nearly 32 % of sand fly species recorded in Mexico are related to Leishmania transmission. A correct morphological identification of sand flies is essential to improve epidemiological and control strategies. Wing geometric morphometrics (GM) has proven to be a complementary tool for classical taxonomy, allowing us to explore variations in structure and shape between species. This study evaluated whether the use of wing morphometric traits aids to identify vector sand fly species independently of their geographic distribution. The specimens were identified morphologically using specialized keys, and the right wings were analyzed using 17 landmarks. Principal Component Analysis, Canonical Variate Analysis, and Mahalanobis distances were calculated to quantify morphological differentiation. A total of 305 specimens from nine species were analyzed. Procrustes ANOVA showed significant differences (P < 0.0001) in shape and size for species, as well as significant differences across their distribution between populations of Lutzomyia cruciata (P < 0.0001) and Psathyromyia shannoni (P < 0.0001), respectively. The use of GM tools was effective to separate species at interspecific and intraspecific level, evidencing population differences in vector sand fly species that could favor the transmission of Leishmania.