Tabanidae

Introduction

Also known as:

Horse flies

Tabanidae flies are found throughout the world and although commonly being known as the horse fly they attack a wide variety of animals including humans. There are several species of veterinary importance;

• Tabanus
• Chrysops
• Haematopota
• Large flies

Recognition

• 2.5cm long

• Biting mouthparts
  • Short, strong and down pointing proboscis
  • Only females suck blood

• Dark colour with stripes or patches of colour on body and wings

• Large eyes
  • Often brightly coloured

• Specific wing venation
  • Closed discal cell shape

• Stout

Life Cycle

• Eggs laid on leaves overhanging water

• Larvae drop into water

• 1 year later larvae emerge onto dry land to pupate

• Adult flies emerge a few weeks after pupating

• Life cycle takes over 1 year to complete

Pathogenesis

• Most active on hot, sunny days

• Locate prey by sight

• Cause painful irritating bites

• Mechanical vectors for many diseases
  • Bacteria such as anthrax and pasteurellosis
  • Viruses such as Equine infectious anaemia and African horse sickness
  • Rickettsiales, such as anaplasmosis

• Intermediate hosts for some trypanosome diseases