Studies on the ecology of black flies (Simuliidae; Diptera) : (1) Comparison of some quantitative sampling methods for larvae

Abstract

Various artificial substrates for immature simuliid were compared to establish a standard quantitative sampling method. And a hand collection method were also investigated. The artificial substrates used were nylon scrubbing brushes, short and long polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheets, PVC tubes, fire bricks, normal bricks, and ceramic tiles. The number of simuliids captured by the PVC tubes was largest and that by the nylon scrubbing brushes was smallest. The hand collection were carried out by two collectors for five minutes each. In order to collect the immature stages of simuliid quantitatively, use of two methods, PVC tubes and five-minute collection are recommended.