Bot Flies

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oestridae: /ˈiː.strɪˌdaɪ/

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Summary

The Oestridae, or bot flies, are a family of flies characterized by their parasitic larvae, known for causing myiasis in various mammals, including humans. They exhibit complex life cycles and significant ecological roles, with some species contributing to local food sources in traditional cultures.

Physical Characteristics

Large, stout bodied flies that resemble bees; eggs appear as small yellow drops of paint.

Identification Tips

Look for stout body size and similarity to bees; observe egg deposition patterns on host animals.

Habitat

Primarily found worldwide, with specific genera and species adapted to various environments including terrestrial habitats where mammals reside.

Distribution

Over 40 species in our area (6 genera across 3 subfamilies) and approximately 180 species in 30 genera globally.

Diet

Adults do not feed as their mouthparts are atrophied; larvae are endoparasites of various mammals and grow in the flesh or digestive tracts.

Life Cycle

Life cycles can vary, but generally involve egg deposition on or near a host, larval burrowing into host tissue, and pupation in soil.

Reproduction

Mating occurs after which the female lays between 100 to 400 eggs on the host or intermediary vectors; typically, adults live for only 8-9 days.

Ecosystem Role

These flies act as obligate parasites, contributing to the ecological balance by controlling host populations.

Economic Impact

Infestation can lead to economic losses in livestock due to the need for veterinary interventions and potential impacts on animal health.

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, larvae from specific species are consumed as food, such as during the butchery of caribou in Inuit traditions.

Health Concerns

Dermatobia hominis is the only botfly species known to routinely parasitize humans, potentially causing myiasis.

Collecting Methods

• Collecting adult flies using traps baited with attractants.
• Examining host animals for eggs and larvae.

Preservation Methods

• Freezing specimens for long-term preservation.
• Mounting specimens on pins or in vials with ethanol.

Evolution

The Oestridae family includes former families like Cuterebridae and Gasterophilidae as subfamilies, showing a complex evolutionary history as parasites.

Similar Taxa

• Gasterophilidae
• Cuterebridae
• Dermatobia hominis

Misconceptions

Many assume all botflies are harmful to humans, while only Dermatobia hominis predominantly affects humans.

Tags

• Oestridae
• Bot Flies
• Parasites
• Myiasis
• Warble Flies
• Insecta