Fleshfly (Dux) vs Onchocerciasis Black Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Fleshfly (Dux) Onchocerciasis Black Fly
Scientific Name Sarcophaga dux Simulium damnosum
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Sarcophagidae Simuliidae
Size 10-16 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Woodlands Rivers & Streams
Diet Detritivores Blood Feeders
Regions Tropical Asia, Pacific Islands, Australia Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Fleshfly (Dux)

A large gray flesh fly common across tropical Asia and the Pacific that is an important cause of wound myiasis and secondary myiasis of the ear and nose. Females deposit live larvae directly into wounds and body cavities. It is frequently associated with unsanitary conditions in tropical urban areas.

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Did You Know?

Cases of aural myiasis caused by this fly, where larvae infest the ear canal, are regularly reported in tropical Asian hospitals.

Onchocerciasis Black Fly

The primary vector of river blindness in West and Central Africa. Larvae thrive in oxygen-rich rapids of tropical rivers.

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Did You Know?

This species complex transmits the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus, which has blinded millions across Africa.