Louse Flies
Hippoboscidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Diptera
- Superfamily: Hippoboscoidea
- Family: Hippoboscidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hippoboscidae: /ˌhɪpoʊˈbɒskəˌdaɪ/
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Summary
Hippoboscidae, commonly known as louse flies, are obligate ectoparasites of mammals and birds, characterized by their blood-feeding behavior and unique reproductive strategies. They exhibit significant diversity, with numerous species adapted to various hosts.
Physical Characteristics
Louse flies range in size from 1.5 to 12 mm. Winged species can fly reasonably well, while others have vestigial or no wings and are flightless. The notable sheep ked, Melophagus ovinus, is a wingless, reddish-brown fly.
Identification Tips
Look for winged and wingless forms; winged species like Hippobosca equina have a larger body size compared to their wingless counterparts. Wingless individuals usually appear reddish-brown.
Habitat
Louse flies are found in association with their hosts, which include mammals and birds. They are common in habitats where their hosts reside, including forests, meadows, and farmlands.
Distribution
Hippoboscidae species are found worldwide; in North America, they are observed especially in association with birds and mammals. Notably, Hippobosca longipennis is recorded in NA but may not be fully established.
Diet
Hippoboscidae are obligate blood-feeding parasites, primarily feeding on the blood of birds and mammals.
Life Cycle
Most larval development occurs inside the female's body, with pupation occurring almost immediately after larvae are deposited as late-stage larvae.
Reproduction
Reproduction is energetically expensive, and females typically give birth to a single larva that is deposited just before pupation.
Ecosystem Role
Hippoboscidae play a significant role in the ecosystems they inhabit, often serving as ectoparasites, which can impact host populations and health.
Economic Impact
Some species may have economic significance due to their impact on livestock, particularly the sheep ked, which can affect sheep health and productivity.
Health Concerns
Louse flies can be vectors for various pathogens, including those causing 'pigeon malaria' and West Nile Virus, posing threats to wildlife and domestic animals.
Collecting Methods
- Netting
- Trapping
Preservation Methods
- Alcohol preservation
- Pinned specimens
Evolution
Hippoboscidae are classified within the superfamily Hippoboscoidea, with some studies suggesting the recognition of certain tribal groups as separate families due to genetic analyses.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Louse flies are often confused with other fly families due to their parasitic nature but differ in life cycle and morphological traits.
Tags
- insect
- parasite
- ectoparasite
- blood-feeder
- Diptera