The Manitoban blackfly fauna with special reference to prospections made in 1983–1985 in central and southern Manitoba (Diptera: Simuliidae)

Abstract

Findings from extensive collections of Simuliidae made in Manitoba, till now a poorly-known province of Canada from the standpoint of its blackfly fauna, are presented. Sampling of larvae, pupae and reared adult fies from a diversity of lotic habitats in the spring seasons of 1983-1985 resulted in the collection of 14581 specimens from a total of 135 positive breeding sites among 184 potential sites prospected. In all, 29 species and species complexes are represented in the material. The Manitoban background for Simuliidae is briefly described and data from the literature or from specimens located in various depositories (notably the Canadian National Collection in Ottawa) are taken into account.