Hippoboscidae

Common name

Louseflies or Keds

Overview

Hippoboscidae, commonly known as louse flies or keds, is a family of obligate blood-feeding ectoparasites that primarily infest birds and mammals. These flies exhibit various specialized adaptations that allow them to cling to their hosts and avoid removal. Some species within this family are known for their unusual reproductive strategies and complex life cycles.

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Obligate ectoparasites, mostly of birds and mammals.
  • Flattened bodies adapted for moving through host fur or feathers.
  • Some species have wings while others are wingless.
  • Strong claws on legs to grasp the host’s skin or feathers.
  • Mouthparts adapted for piercing and sucking blood.

Life Cycle

  • Viviparous: Females give birth to live larvae, rather than laying eggs.
  • Larvae develop internally and are deposited as pupae on the host or in the nest.
  • Pupae eventually hatch into adults, ready to infest a new host.
  • Adult lifespan can vary, often dependent on host availability and environmental conditions.

Behavior and Ecology

  • Ecto-parasitic lifestyle, largely dependent on host for meals and often for completion of the life cycle.
  • High host specificity, with some species parasitizing a narrow range of host species.
  • Adults are usually long-lived once they find a suitable host.
  • Can cause irritation, blood loss, and transmit diseases to their hosts.

Notable Species

  • Melophagus ovinus (Sheep ked): Wingless, primarily infests sheep, and is a significant pest in the wool industry.
  • Lipoptena cervi (Deer ked): Infests deer, known for its winged adult form that sheds its wings and becomes permanently attached to the host.
  • Ornithomya avicularia : Prefers bird hosts and retains wings.

Conservation

  • Most species are not globally threatened, although their conservation status often depends on their host species' population.
  • The impact of pesticides and habitat changes on host species can indirectly affect Hippoboscidae populations.

Significance to Humans

  • Economic impact: Certain species like the sheep ked affect livestock industries, leading to economic losses.
  • Historical significance: Louse flies have been known to parasitize domestic animals for centuries, influencing animal husbandry practices.
  • Veterinary and medical importance: These flies can spread blood-borne diseases among host species.

Fun Facts

  • Hippoboscidae are sometimes called "louse flies" despite not being true lice.
  • The sheep ked, Melophagus ovinus , was historically a major problem for wool producers due to its damaging effects on fleece quality.
  • Some species of louse flies will fly long distances to find and infest a new host.
  • While many are wingless, those with wings often shed them after finding a host, signaling their commitment to a life of parasitism.
  • Louse flies demonstrate a fascinating example of convergent evolution, showing similarities in lifestyle and morphology with true lice.