First insights into using outline-based geometric morphometrics of wing cell contours to distinguish three morphologically similar species of Tabanus (Diptera: Tabanidae)

Accurate species identification of horse flies (Diptera: Tabanidae) is crucial due to their role as vectors for various pathogens, which is essential for understanding their biology, devising strategies to control their populations, and enhancing disease surveillance. This study assessed the efficacy of outline-based geometric morphometrics (GM) by analyzing the wing cell contours of discal, first submarginal, and second submarginal cells to distinguish three morphologically similar Tabanus species commonly found in Thailand, T. megalops, T. rubidus, and T. striatus. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant size differences between T. rubidus and the two other species (P