Stomoxys

Name

Greek: stomoxys = with pointed mouth.

Classification

Genus of the fly family Muscidae, subfamily Stomoxynae = biting flies.

Life Cycle

The worldwide occurring species S. calcitrans (= stable fly) reaches a size of up to 7 mm and is found mainly in stables (Fig. 1). After bloodsucking the females deposit 60–100 eggs per batch (800 in total) onto the faeces of cattle, horses, or degenerating plants. Within 3–7 weeks the new generation develops. Females feed two times per day (often double their own weight) and thus introduce a considerable blood loss, if they occur in masses. The larvae and pupae overwinter at protected places in the stables or close by. Diptera, Insects, Fig. 9C.

Stomoxys, Fig. 1

LM of an adult Stomoxys calcitrans