Diptera - Culicoides, Simulium, Gasterophilus and control Flashcards
What are the biting midges? How big are they?
Culicoides spp
What are the distinguishing features of culicoides?
Tiny (1-4mm)
Brown/black body
Mottled wings
How do culicoides feed?
Dig holes and feed on free blood
Where do culicoides lay eggs?
Damp areas (marsh land, compost)
How long is the egg to adult life cycle of culicoides?
3 weeks
How many generations of culicoides are there per year?
1-2
But in huge numbers
What do culicoides cause?
Sweet itch (allergic response to them)
Irritation, allergic dermatitis
Self-inflifcted rubbing lesions on withers, mane, tail
What disease are midges vectors of?
Equine arboviruses:
African horse sickness
Blue tongue
Schmallenberg
What is the species of black flies?
Simulium spp
What are the distinguishing features of simulium spp flies?
Small (1-4mm)
Brownish/orange stout body
Humped thorax
Clear wings
Where do simulium spp lay their eggs?
Require running water
Rivers, streams
How long does it take for a generation of simulium to form?
4 weeks
What do simulium spp cause in ducks and geese?
Leucocytozoon (arctic regions)
What is the species of the horse bot fly, in the Oestridae family?
Gasterophilus spp
What type of parasites are Gasterophilus spp? When are they active/
Obligate myiasis parasite