Chrysops shermani

Hine, 1907

Sherman's Deer Fly

Chrysops shermani is a of deer fly in the Tabanidae, described by Hine in 1907. Like other members of the Chrysops, it is a biting fly known for its painful bites to mammals, including humans. The species is found in the United States, with records from Vermont and other states.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysops shermani: //ˈkrɪsɒps ˈʃɜːr.məˌnaɪ//

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

Distribution

United States; recorded from Vermont and other locations.

Diet

Females are blood-feeders on mammals; males feed on nectar and other sugary substances.

Host Associations

Mammals - blood-feeding Females require blood meals for development

Life Cycle

Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Larvae are typically aquatic or semi-aquatic.

Behavior

Females are active daytime biters. Both sexes visit flowers for nectar.

Ecological Role

of flowers; females serve as potential of agents between mammal .

Human Relevance

Nuisance pest due to painful bites; females can transmit and other .

Similar Taxa

Other Chrysops speciesDeer flies in the Chrysops share similar body plans, color patterns, and biting habits; precise identification requires examination of wing venation and genitalia.
Tabanus speciesHorse flies are larger with broader and different wing patterns; Chrysops typically have spotted or banded wings and smaller body size.

More Details

Taxonomic Status

GBIF lists the as accepted, while Catalogue of Life notes it as a synonym. This discrepancy suggests taxonomic uncertainty that may require further revision.