Phlebotomus (sandfly) transmits Kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis). Which characteristic distinguishes Phlebotomus from other disease-transmitting insects in terms of habitat for control purposes?

• A Breeds in stagnant water collections like ponds and drains
• B Breeds in salt-water marshes and coastal areas
• C Breeds exclusively in tree holes and bamboo stumps
• D Breeds in organic-rich moist soil, cracks in walls, and peridomestic sites; does not breed in water ✓

Explanation

Phlebotomus (sandflies) breed in dark, humid microhabitats rich in organic matter such as cracks in earthen walls, rubble, leaf litter, rodent burrows, and peridomestic soil — not in water like mosquitoes. This has implications for control: IRS with DDT (phlebotomine sandflies are highly susceptible), plastering of wall cracks, cleanliness of peridomestic areas, and bed nets with fine mesh (sandflies are smaller than mosquitoes) are the key measures.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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