Influence of altitude, latitude and season of collection (Bergmann's rule)on the dimensions of Lutzomyia intermedia (Lutz & Neiva, 1912) (Diptera, Psychodidae, Phlebotominae)

The influence of altitude and latitude on some structure sizes of Lutzomyia intermedia was noted; several structures of insects collected in higher lo calities were greater, according to Bergmann's rule. This influence was mor e remarkable in two localities of the State of Espirito Santo, probably due to greater differences in altitude. Comparing insects from different latit udes, more differences were noted in comparisons of insects from low altitu de localities than in those of material rom higher altitudes. The small num ber of differences between insects collected in July and in December does n ot indicate a defined influence of season and temperature on the size of ad ults. The possible epidemiological implications of these variations are dis cussed.