Types Of Flies In Texas

Texas, known for its diversity in landscapes, is home to a wide variety of insect species, including an array of flies.

Flies are not only an integral part of the ecosystem, contributing to decomposition and serving as a food source for many organisms, but they can also become a nuisance due to their potential for disease transmission.

Published: July 13, 2023.

House Flies (Musca domestic)

House flies, scientifically known as Musca domestica, are prevalent in almost every corner of the world, and Texas is no exception.

Their ubiquitous presence stems from their adaptability to different climates and environments. Adult house flies are typically gray in color, with four distinct longitudinal lines on the thorax, and their body size varies from 1/4 to 1/2 inch.

The house fly's life cycle begins with eggs laid in decaying organic matter, progressing through a larval stage (maggots) and pupal stage, culminating in adulthood.

It's this preference for decomposing matter that often brings house flies in close contact with humans, potentially spreading diseases like dysentery and salmonella.

Efforts to control their populations include sanitation, screening and sealing homes, and the use of insecticides when needed.

Blow Flies (Calliphoridae)

The family Calliphoridae, more commonly known as blow flies, is another prominent species found throughout Texas.

Identified by their metallic-colored bodies that can range from green to blue, blow flies are slightly larger than house flies. The name "blow fly" comes from an old English term, "flyblown," which means to be infested with fly eggs.

Blow flies are essential decomposers in nature, with their larvae, or maggots, often used by forensic scientists to estimate the time of death in criminal investigations.

Despite this beneficial role in the ecosystem, blow flies, like house flies, can become a public health concern. They can carry pathogenic organisms, depositing them onto human food and surfaces.

Regular garbage disposal, the use of fly screens, and proper food storage can help mitigate the risk posed by these flies.

Horse Flies (Tabanidae)

The Tabanidae family, commonly known as horse flies, can be a particular nuisance in rural Texas, especially around livestock.

Horse flies are larger than most other fly species, measuring up to 1 inch in length. Characterized by their large compound eyes and robust bodies, female horse flies are known for their painful bite, as they feed on mammalian blood.

Horse flies can be problematic, particularly for ranchers and livestock keepers.

Their bite not only causes discomfort and stress to animals, but they can also transmit equine infectious anemia and other diseases.

Control methods often involve the use of fly traps and repellents, although these may not be wholly effective given the fly's tenacity and adaptability.

Fruit Flies (Drosophilidae)

Last but not least, we have the Drosophilidae family, better known as fruit flies.

These diminutive flies, usually not exceeding 1/8 of an inch, are commonly identified by their red eyes and tan or brownish body color. Fruit flies, as their name suggests, are attracted to ripe, rotting, or decayed fruit and vegetable matter, making them frequent visitors in kitchens and grocery stores.

Although fruit flies pose a minimal risk in terms of disease transmission, they can become a significant nuisance, particularly due to their rapid reproduction rate.

A single female can lay about 500 eggs, leading to large infestations if not addressed quickly.

Maintaining cleanliness in food storage and preparation areas, promptly disposing of ripe fruits and vegetables, and utilizing traps are effective ways to control fruit fly populations.

Drain Flies (Psychodidae)

Another common type of fly encountered in Texas is the drain fly, part of the Psychodidae family.

These tiny, moth-like insects, typically measuring up to 1/6 of an inch, are named for their propensity to inhabit drains, sewers, and septic tanks.

Drain flies, also known as moth flies or sink flies, are covered with a layer of hair giving them a fuzzy, moth-like appearance.

The life cycle of a drain fly revolves around organic matter and moisture, with their eggs and larvae thriving in the gelatinous film that coats the inner surface of drain pipes.

While they are not considered a significant health threat, drain flies can become a severe nuisance when their populations go unchecked.

Regular cleaning and sanitation of drains and plumbing systems are the best means of preventing drain fly infestations.

Sand Flies (Phlebotominae)

Also common in Texas are sand flies, which belong to the subfamily Phlebotominae. These small, biting insects are more prevalent in coastal regions, although they can be found throughout the state.

Sand flies are tiny, usually not exceeding 1/8 inch in size, and are recognized by their hairy bodies and wings, as well as their elongated mouthparts.

Sand flies, particularly the females, feed on the blood of various animals, including humans. They are of significant concern due to their role as vectors for diseases like Leishmaniasis and Sandfly Fever.

If you live in an area with a high sand fly population, it's recommended to wear protective clothing and use insect repellents, particularly during the evening when these flies are most active.

Few Final Words

The diversity of fly species in Texas is remarkable, ranging from house flies to sand flies.

Each species plays a unique role in the ecosystem, but they can also pose various challenges, especially when they come into close contact with humans and domestic animals.

Understanding their habits and life cycles is crucial for effective control and prevention strategies.