Wing Phenotypic Variation among Stomoxys calcitrans (Diptera: Muscidae) Populations in Thailand

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (Diptera: Muscidae), is the predominant Stomoxys spp. in Thailand and is considered a pest for livestock, pets, wildlife, and occasionally humans. This study investigated the phenotypic variation in the wing size and shape of S. calcitrans populations from different geographical regions in Thailand using landmark-based geometric morphometric analysis. Results showed strong spatial variation in wing shape among S. calcitrans populations and thus suggested the existence of phenotypic plasticity in this fly. ABSTRACT: Stomoxys calcitrans (Linnaeus, 1758) (Diptera: Muscidae) is a cosmopolitan hematophagous ectoparasite of veterinary and medical importance. It is an important mechanical vector of several animal pathogens and can cause significant economic losses. However, the morphological variation of this species remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the phenotypic variation in the wing size and shape of S. calcitrans populations in Thailand based on a landmark-based geometric morphometric approach. Specimens were collected from five populations in five geographical regions in Thailand. A total of 490 left wings of S. calcitrans (245 female and 245 male individuals) were used for geometric morphometric analysis. Wing size differences were detected between some populations of S. calcitrans, whereas wing shape differences were found among populations. Therefore, the phenotypic variation in S. calcitrans populations indicated that these populations are adaptive responses to local environmental pressures, suggesting the presence of phenotypic plasticity in this species.