Serological identification of the predators of the complex of Simulium damnosum Theobald (Diptera: Simuliidae) in the Ivory Coast

Abstract

AbstractThe natural predators of larvae and pupae of the complex of Simulium damnosum Theo., most probably S. soubrense Vajime & Dunbar and S. sanctipauli Vajime & Dunbar, in the River Marahousé in the Ivory Coast were identified by serological methods. Rabbits were injected with cell-free saline extracts of S. damnosum larvae to produce S. damnosum antiserum, which was used in interfacial capillary ring tests. A total of 1648 gut smears was made from various aquatic invertebrates and tested, and Trichoptera larvae were identified as the most important predators.