Chrysops

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Infraorder: Tabanomorpha
Family: Tabanidae
Subfamily: Chrysopsinae
Tribe: Chrysopsini
Genus: Chrysops

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysops: //ˈkrɪs.ɒps//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Chrysops bishoppi by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chrysops zinzala by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chrysops harmani by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chrysops tidwelli by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chrysops dilatus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Chrysops, commonly known as deer flies, are a genus of bloodsucking insects with significant pest status due to their painful bites and the diseases they can transmit. They are found worldwide except in certain regions.

Physical Characteristics

Large flies with brightly colored compound eyes and large clear wings with dark bands; larger than common housefly, smaller than horse-fly.

Identification Tips

View showing dorsal head, thorax, abdomen; clear view of wings and abdomen; frontal view shows black oval frontal callus, yellow shiny triangle frontoclypeus, and distinct palps; leg color is also indicative.

Habitat

Vegetation near water or damp areas, often in wetlands.

Distribution

Worldwide, not reported in Iceland, Greenland, or Hawaii.

Diet

Male deer flies collect pollen; female deer flies feed on blood from mammals, which is required for egg production.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid in batches of 100 to 800 on vegetation near water; larval stage lasts one to three years, feeding on small creatures or rotting organic matter; pupal stage before emerging as adults in late spring and summer.

Reproduction

Females require a blood meal to produce eggs, and they are attracted to prey by sight, smell, or carbon dioxide detection.

Predators

Nest-building wasps, hornets, dragonflies, killdeer, and some other birds.

Ecosystem Role

As blood-feeders, they play a role in the life cycles of their hosts and have interactions with various species in their habitat.

Economic Impact

Considered pests to humans and livestock due to painful bites and potential disease transmission.

Health Concerns

Can transmit diseases such as tularemia, anthrax, anaplasmosis, equine infectious anemia, hog cholera, and filiariasis; bites may cause severe allergic reactions.

Collecting Methods

Trapping devices
Protective clothing and long-sleeved shirts

Misconceptions

DEET is not effective as a repellent for deer flies.