Hybomitra

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Infraorder: Tabanomorpha
Family: Tabanidae
Subfamily: Tabaninae
Tribe: Tabanini
Genus: Hybomitra

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hybomitra: /ˌhaɪbɵˈmaɪtrə/

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

Images

Hybomitra nola by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Hybomitra nura by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Hybomitra stigmoptera fuji by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Hybomitra is a genus of horse flies in the family Tabanidae, containing at least 240 described species globally and around 60 in certain regions of North America. They are notably similar to Tabanus and require careful examination for differentiation.

Physical Characteristics

Members of the genus range from small to large, with body lengths of 10-20 mm. They are similar to Tabanus, making identification based on head characters crucial.

Identification Tips

Head characters are crucial to distinguish Hybomitra from Tabanus. Key descriptions allow identification of 40 species found in eastern Canada.

Habitat

Hybomitra species are mostly found in northern North America, with distribution extending to holarctic and Afrotropical regions.

Distribution

Hyalomitra is predominantly found in northern North America, being replaced further south by Tabanus. There are a total of 250+ described species globally and at least 60 species in certain regions.

Diet

Adult Hybomitra are known to feed on the blood of mammals, including humans and livestock.

Ecosystem Role

As blood-feeding insects, they play a role in various food webs and may influence the health of populations of their hosts.

Health Concerns

Hybomitra are known for their biting behavior, which can cause discomfort and potential transmission of pathogens to hosts, including livestock and humans.

Similar Taxa

Tabanus