Changes

This parasite is found worldwide and attacks a wide variety of animals and also attacks humans.

This parasite is found worldwide and attacks humans and a wide variety of animals.

'''Recognition'''

'''Recognition'''

Small flies 2-5mm long with a dark colouring. They have a characteristic arched thorax giving a 'hump-backed' appearance. The wings are mottled.  

Culicoides are small flies 2-5mm long with a dark colouring. They have a characteristic arched thorax giving a 'hump-backed' appearance. The wings are mottled.  

'''Life cycle'''

'''Life cycle'''

Eggsare laid on to plants near water and the larvae fall into water and pupate. The life cycle takes '''6-12 months''' to complete in temperate climates but is only '''1 month''' in tropical climates.

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 is only '''1 month''' in tropical climates.