Development and Oviposition Preference of House Flies and Stable Flies (Diptera: Muscidae) in Six Substrates From Florida Equine Facilities.

This research investigates the larval development and laying of eggs (oviposition) by house flies and stable flies on six different substrates frequently found in horse breeding facilities. The study aims to understand these insects’ preferences and how such knowledge could potentially lower pest populations.

Research Methodology

The researchers studied the behavior of house flies (Musca domestica L.) and stable flies (Stomoxys calcitrans (L.)), two insects commonly considered pests in horse breeding facilities. The study was executed in a laboratory setting where they tested flies’ preference and development success in six substrates typically found in horse farms. The substrates tested were:

• Hay contaminated with urine and manure
• Fresh horse manure
• Fresh pine shaving bedding mixed with urine and manure (less than 12 hours old)
• Pine shaving bedding mixed with urine and manure that had been left to age over 72 hours in a manure pile
• Builders sand bedding contaminated with urine and manure aged three days
• Soil from an overgrazed pasture mixed with urine and manure of varying ages

Research Findings

The study revealed that larvae of house flies failed to develop into adults in the hay, soil, and sand substrates. Stable flies preferred to lay eggs in substrates containing plant material rather than fresh manure. However, puparium formation was highest in fresh manure and the fresh pine shaving substrates when eggs were artificially introduced to the various substrates.

In contrast to house flies, stable flies could develop in all six substrates provided, although the development rate was lower on substrates with soil. In tests where the insects had to choose, fresh manure and fresh pine shaving substrates were the most attractive for house fly oviposition. These substrates also produced the highest number of puparium from artificially added eggs.

Implications

Understanding the oviposition preferences and varied larval development of house flies and stable flies on these substrates can help devise strategies to manage pest populations effectively. For instance, it is possible to decrease pest presence by managing equine waste efficiently and choosing appropriate bedding materials. The research findings highlight the importance of targeted pest management practices in horse breeding facilities.