Acta Scientifica Malaysia (ASM)

Leptoconops are tiny blood-feeding insects commonly found in sandy beaches of tropical and sub-tropical regions and is known for its irritating bites. Their bites can cause allergic reactions and scarring. Leptoconops spinosifrons were collected from Bagan Lalang beach in Selangor with human landing catch (HLC) and modified emergence traps techniques. The specimens collected were mounted on microscope slides in Canada Balsam for morphological identification. The basic morphological features of L. spinosifrons were based on taxonomy key. In addition, the morphological features of male and female L. spinosifrons were differentiated in this study. This study aimed to describe the morphological characteristics of L. spinosifrons. The morphological characteristics of the poorly-known L. spinosifrons in this study are the first reported in Malaysia. It provides crucial surveillance data for this medically important, yet neglected insect that is associated with outdoor and tourism activities.