Stable Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) - Biology, Management, and Research Needs

Abstract

Stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) are global pests of livestock, companion animals, and humans. These flies inflict painful bites and cause significant economic losses to producers by reducing livestock production. In addition, they have been associated with the mechanical transmission of several pathogens causing disease in animals. Management of this species is difficult because: 1) their developmental habitats are often ephemeral accumulations of decomposing vegetation, 2) they can exploit cultural practices in many agricultural and urban environments, and 3) the adults are highly mobile. An integrated pest management (IPM) approach is required to effectively manage stable flies, including integration of cultural, mechanical, physical, biological, and chemical control options. The challenges of stable flies in different animal commodities are discussed, and current and novel technologies for control are presented. Lastly, need for additional research to improve stable fly management methods are discussed.