Genetic diversity of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene in Lutzomyia spp., with special reference to Lutzomyia peruensis, a main vector of Leishmania (Viannia) peruviana in the Peruvian Andes

► Cytochrome b (cyt b) gene sequences were determined for 13 sand fly species in Peru. ► Highly polymorphic sites were identified in the middle region of the cyt b gene. ► Haplotype analysis showed area-dependent genetic polymorphism in Lutzomyia peruensis. ► The cyt b gene will be a useful marker for genetic structure in sand fly populations.