Second stage larvae of nasal botflies (Oestridae) from African antelopes

Abstract

Abstract. A key is provided to second stage larvae of the nine species of Oestrinae known to infest the nasal passages of African antelopes. Second stage larvae of Kirkioestrus blanchardi Gedoelst and Oestrus macdonaldi Rodhain & Bequaert are described for the first time while expanded descriptions are given for K.minutus (R. & B.), O.aureoargentatus R. & B. and O.variolosus (hew): the validity of these descriptions is supported by the coincidence of second instar cuticles and identifiable third instar cuticles in mature, pharate, second stage larvae. The antelope‐infesting species of Gedoelstia R. & B. and Rhinoestrus Brauer are also included. The use of posterior spiracles for the recognition of these larvae is discussed together with a consideration of their possible biological significance. Hosts and distributions are given for these nasal bots and their differing host specificities are discussed.