Dispersal of synanthropic diptera: Lessons from the past and technology for the future

The impact of aerial invasion of new habitats by dispersal of synanthropic arthropods on human society is one of the most important topics in the ento mological world. A review is presented of important advances in the knowled ge of dispersal of a number of dipteran species that cause damage to, or se rve as vectors for diseases of, humans and associated animals. The componen ts of aerial dispersal are delineated, and forms of dispersal are defined i n the context of interactive forces that result in dispersal by synanthropi c Diptera. Migratory nights by black flies are put into ecological perspect ive, as are the wind-borne movements of ceratopogonid vectors of viruses. D ispersal by house flies, screwworms, and stable flies are specifically addr essed to trace the changes in technology used to detect and quantify aerial dispersal during the 20th century and to propose new ways to use current t echnology.