stable fly

insect

Also known as: Stomoxys calcitrans, biting housefly

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Article History

stable fly, (Stomoxys calcitrans), a species of vicious bloodsucking fly in the family Muscidae (sometimes placed in the family Stomoxyidae) in the fly order, Diptera. Stable flies are usually found in open sunny areas, although they may enter a house during bad weather. Often known as biting houseflies, they may transmit anthrax and other animal diseases.

The female must feed on blood before she can lay her eggs. Eggs are laid and larvae develop in rotting or fermenting straw. The life cycle requires about three weeks. The stable fly is best controlled by the elimination of breeding areas.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.