Difference between revisions of "Ceratopogonidae"
| Line 16: | Line 16: | ||
|species = | |species = | ||
}} | }} | ||
| − | + | Also known as: '''''Midges'''''<br> | |
| − | + | The most important veterinary species is '''''Culicoides''''' <br> | |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | + | ==Introduction== | |
| − | |||
| − | |||
This parasite is found worldwide and attacks humans and a wide variety of animals. The only genus of the family ''Ceratopogonidae'' of current veterinary significance is ''Culicoides''. | This parasite is found worldwide and attacks humans and a wide variety of animals. The only genus of the family ''Ceratopogonidae'' of current veterinary significance is ''Culicoides''. | ||
Revision as of 15:15, 14 September 2010
 |
This article has been peer reviewed but is awaiting expert review. If you would like to help with this, please see more information about expert reviewing. |
| Ceratopogonidae | |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Arthropoda |
| Class | Insecta |
| Family | Ceratopogonidae |
| Genus | Culicoides |
Also known as: Midges
The most important veterinary species is Culicoides
Introduction
This parasite is found worldwide and attacks humans and a wide variety of animals. The only genus of the family Ceratopogonidae of current veterinary significance is Culicoides.
The midge is a vector for several viruses, including Bluetongue and African horse sickness.
It causes allergic dermatitis of horses, primarily affecting the base of the tail and the withers, and induces an intermediate-type hypersensitivity reaction to the midge saliva, known as 'Sweet itch'
Identification
Culicoides are small flies 2-5mm long with a dark colouring, more commonly known as biting midges. They have a characteristic arched thorax giving a 'hump-backed' appearance. The wings are mottled.
Life cycle
Eggs are laid onto plants near water and the larvae fall into water and pupate. The life cycle takes 6-12 months to complete in temperate climates, but can take only 1 month in tropical climates. Females of most species are adapted to sucking blood from the host.
Literature Search
Use these links to find recent scientific publications via CABdirect (log in required unless accessing from a subscribing organisation).