13 - Horse Flies and Deer Flies (Tabanidae)

Abstract

Horse flies and deer flies are large size, and have striking appearance and diurnal biting habits. They are large species of tabanids, typically 10─30 nm in length. The family Tabanidae includes approximately 4300 species and subspecies in 133 genera worldwide. Tabanid larvae are spindle-shaped and generally whitish in color, although some are shades of brown or green. Tabanid adults are stout-bodied flies. Tabanids undergo 6─13 larval molts and overwinter as larvae. As soil dwellers, they are difficult to observe and sample. Tabanid larvae are rarely free-swimming in nature, but some, such as T. punctifer, are buoyant and can swim effectively by repeatedly flipping the rear half of the body and propelling themselves in short, gliding spurts. Tabanid mating occurs in flight, especially in the morning. They are a serious nuisance to livestock and can mechanically transmit several significant animal pathogens, including those that cause surra, anaplasmosis, and equine infectious anemia. The human diseases transmitted by tabanid are loiasis and tularemia. The outdoor activities and tourism suffer in areas where tabanid populations are high. The techniques used to control tabanids include use of insecticides, use of traps, water management, and the use of biological control agents.