A Mini-review of Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) Fauna and its Vectorial Role in Tunisia

Abstract

Following the bluetongue outbreaks in Tunisia from 1999 to 2006, bluetongue virus serotype 2 was isolated and several entomological investigations were performed. The present study reviewed the current status of Culicoides fauna in Tunisia and their role as proven and potential vectors of bluetongue virus based on the available and scattered reports. In total, about 35 species of Culicoides are known to occur in the country. Culicoides imicola is considered as the main and the proven vector of bluetongue virus. Other species of the genus Culicoides were suggested as potential vectors bluetongue virus. We cited mainly Culicoides obsoletus, Culicoides scoticus, Culicoides dewulfi and Culicoides pulicaris. Priority recommendations to prepare the country for future veterinary health challenges were suggested.