Spatio-Temporal Distribution and Bionomics of Blackfly Species in Ghana: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Blackflies (Simuliidae) are a diverse group of insects known for their blood-feeding habits and their potential role as vectors of various diseases. In Ghana, onchocerciasis (River blindness) is prevalent with reported sporadic outbreaks occurring in various host-spots across different ecozones as a result of the abundance of its vectors, however, blackfly species have been the subject of limited research and documentation. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of the known blackfly species in Ghana and their distribution, while highlighting the gaps in the existing literature. The findings emphasize the need for further studies to enhance our understanding of blackfly ecology, species diversity, and potential disease transmission risks in Ghana.