Simuliidae
Simuliidae
Simuliidae (pronounced: si-mu-lii-dae) is a family of flies, commonly known as black flies or buffalo gnats. They are small, dark, and stout-bodied insects that are part of the order Diptera.
Etymology
The term Simuliidae is derived from the Latin word 'simulium', which was used to describe a type of gnat. The '-idae' suffix is a standard ending in zoological taxonomy that denotes a family rank.
Description
Members of the Simuliidae family are small, usually 1-5 mm in length. They are characterized by their humped back and broad wings. The females of many species are hematophagous, meaning they feed on the blood of vertebrates, including humans, to obtain the necessary nutrients for egg production.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Simuliidae includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The eggs are laid on or near water, and the larvae are aquatic, attaching themselves to rocks or vegetation in fast-flowing water. The pupal stage is also aquatic, and the adults emerge from the pupae and fly away to feed and mate.
Medical Significance
Simuliidae are vectors for several diseases, including Onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, and Leucocytozoonosis, a disease that affects birds. Their bites can also cause allergic reactions in some people.
Related Terms
- Diptera: The order of insects to which Simuliidae belong.
- Hematophagous: Referring to organisms that feed on blood.
- Onchocerciasis: A disease transmitted by black flies.
- Leucocytozoonosis: A disease transmitted by black flies that affects birds.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Simuliidae
- Wikipedia's article - Simuliidae
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