Tabanus similis
Macquart, 1850
striped horse fly
Tabanus similis, commonly known as the striped horse fly, is a of horse fly in the Tabanidae. It is distributed across Canada and the United States. Like other horse flies, females are blood-feeders while males feed on nectar and other sugary substances. The species is recognized by its distinctive striped patterning.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tabanus similis: /təˈbeɪnəs ˈsɪmɪlɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The "striped horse fly" suggests the presence of longitudinal stripes on the body or , a pattern that distinguishes it from uniformly colored such as the all-black Tabanus atratus. However, specific diagnostic characters for T. similis versus other striped Tabanus are not well documented in available sources.
Distribution
Canada and the United States. GBIF records specifically note occurrences in Vermont, USA.
Human Relevance
Like other horse flies, females likely bite humans and livestock, causing nuisance and potential secondary of wounds. The may also serve as a mechanical of , though specific documentation for T. similis is lacking.
Similar Taxa
- Tabanus atratusBoth are large North American horse flies in the Tabanus, but T. atratus is uniformly black rather than striped, and is notably larger (20–25 mm body length).
- Tabanus americanusAnother very large North American horse fly, potentially confused due to size, but distinguished by different coloration and pattern.