Details - Public Health Image Library(PHIL)

ID#:

17452

Caption:

Drawn from the dorsal perspective, this illustration depicts the morphologic details exhibited by a horse fly, Tabanus atratus. The Tabanus sp. larvae are found in moist soil or ponds, where they feed on small invertebrates. The adults are strong fliers, and search out hosts from a distance. The painful bite they inflict is due to their mandibles, which are scissor-like, and cut through the skin. The blood is then sponged up. Small hooks along the edge of the mandibles can help anchor the fly at the site of feeding, but also prevents the fly from a quick escape. This means if you can wait for just a few seconds before attempting to swat a feeding horse fly, you will have better success at striking the target.

High Resolution:

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Content Provider(s):

CDC/ Betty G. Partin

Creation Date:

1976

Photo Credit:

Links:

Categories:

CDC Organization