About African Horse Fly
A large tropical horse fly that transmits animal trypanosomiasis in Africa. It is an important veterinary pest across sub-Saharan Africa.
Did You Know?
It is a mechanical vector of surra and other trypanosome diseases in African livestock.
How to Identify African Horse Fly
African Horse Fly (Tabanus biguttatus) belongs to the order Diptera, family Tabanidae. Adults typically measure 16-22 mm.
African Horse Fly Habitat
African Horse Fly is found in rivers & streams habitats, particularly across Sub-Saharan Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
African Horse Fly Diet and Feeding
African Horse Fly is a blood-feeding species that obtains nutrients by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals. Blood feeders have specialised mouthparts adapted for piercing skin.
Where Is African Horse Fly Found?
African Horse Fly can be found in Sub-Saharan Africa, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where African Horse Fly can be found
Is African Horse Fly Dangerous?
African Horse Fly is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals to obtain a blood meal. Bites can cause irritation, itching, and in some cases allergic reactions. Some blood-feeding insects are known to transmit diseases, so precautions should be taken to avoid bites.
African Horse Fly Role in Nature
African Horse Fly plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like African Horse Fly are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About African Horse Fly
What does African Horse Fly look like?
The African Horse Fly typically measures 16-22 mm.
Where is African Horse Fly found?
The African Horse Fly is found in Sub-Saharan Africa and typically inhabits rivers & streams environments.
What does African Horse Fly eat?
The African Horse Fly feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.
Is African Horse Fly dangerous to humans?
The African Horse Fly is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals. Some blood feeders can transmit diseases. Take precautions to avoid bites.
What is an interesting fact about African Horse Fly?
It is a mechanical vector of surra and other trypanosome diseases in African livestock.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). African Horse Fly (Tabanus biguttatus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/african-horse-fly
MLA:
"African Horse Fly." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/african-horse-fly.