First experimental assessment of Phlebotomus mascittii vector competence for Leishmania infantum and Leishmania martiniquensis

Our findings demonstrate that P. mascittii supports full development of L. infantum to the transmissible metacyclic stage and colonization of the stomodeal valve, confirming its potential vector competence. This study provides the first experimental evidence on P. mascittii vectorial competence and highlights its epidemiological relevance in Europe.