Rodent and Lagomorph Bot Flies

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cuterebra: /ˌkjuːtəˈriːbrə/

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Summary

Cuterebra is a genus of large bot flies that primarily affect rodents and lagomorphs as larvae, presenting a unique life cycle where the young parasitize host mammals beneath the skin.

Physical Characteristics

Large size, comparable to a bumblebee; larvae create tumor-like bulges on hosts.

Identification Tips

Identify by size and the presence of subcutaneous larvae in host mammals.

Habitat

Associated with habitats occupied by specific hosts (rodents and rabbits); habitat is less critical than host presence.

Distribution

Primarily found in the New World, including most of North America.

Diet

Larvae feed on the flesh of host mammals, specifically rodents and rabbits.

Life Cycle

The female lays eggs near host burrows, which hatch upon a warm body passing by. Larvae attach to and feed on the host as subcutaneous parasites.

Reproduction

Females typically deposit eggs in the burrows of host mammals; larvae emerge once exposed to warmth.

Ecosystem Role

Maladaptive parasitism with limited impact on host populations; can be common in certain rodent populations.

Collecting Methods

• Live trapping of rodent hosts to inspect for larvae.

Evolution

Genus Cuterebra evolved as ectoparasites of mammals, reflecting a specialized parasitic relationship.

Similar Taxa

• Other bot flies in the family Oestridae.

Misconceptions

Adult Cuterebra flies are rarely seen, leading to misconceptions about their commonality or impact.

Tags

• bot flies
• Cuterebra
• parasitism
• rodents
• lagomorphs