Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Biologia, cilt.81, sa.5, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Simulium variegatum is a veterinary and medically important blackfly species which is widely distributed in the Palearctic region. This species is known for its biting behavior and potential role in transmitting zoonotic pathogens. Species' intraspecific genetic structure has not been fully resolved. This study investigated genetic differentiation and phylogeographic structure of S. variegatum populations from eight locations across Europe and Anatolia by using 103 COI gene sequences. Three different phylogenetic methods (maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian) were applied to 72 haplotypes. Clear clades were observed among Anatolian and British populations, while European haplotypes showed a doubtful polytomy. Haplotype Network analysis supported these patterns, indicating historical isolation and restricted gene flow in non-European populations. The results of species delimitation analyses supported the presence of two primary lineages; a strict TCS threshold distinguished the Russian and Greek haplotypes as potentially independent lineages. The observed genetic heterogeneity indicates the presence of unresolved intraspecific diversity within S. variegatum. These findings may be relevant for future taxonomic evaluations of the species. Advanced molecular research is necessary to understand the evolutionary relationships and vector potential of this species.