Neavei Black Fly vs Buffalo Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Neavei Black Fly | Buffalo Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Simulium neavei | Haematobia irritans exigua |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Simuliidae | Muscidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 3-4 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Farmland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya | Southeast Asia, northern Australia, Pacific Islands |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Neavei Black Fly
A small black fly whose larvae uniquely attach to freshwater crabs rather than rocks or vegetation. It is a vector of river blindness in East Africa, particularly in forested areas. The association with crabs makes it vulnerable to control by removing the crab hosts.
Did You Know?
Eliminating the freshwater crabs that carry its larvae successfully eradicated onchocerciasis from parts of East Africa.
Buffalo Fly
A small blood-feeding fly closely related to the horn fly, found primarily in Southeast Asia and Australia. It is a major pest of cattle and water buffalo, clustering on the animal's back, sides, and belly. Heavy infestations cause skin lesions and reduced milk production.
Did You Know?
Buffalo flies cause annual economic losses exceeding 100 million dollars to the Australian cattle industry.