Black flies
Black flies are small biting flies in the family Simuliidae, a group of true flies in the order Diptera.
Black flies are small biting flies in the family Simuliidae, a group of true flies in the order Diptera. They are known by several common names, including buffalo gnats and turkey gnats. In Canada, more than 160 species are recorded, and they are familiar nuisance insects across much of the country.
Classification and naming
Black flies belong to the family Simuliidae in the order Diptera. Common names vary by region and include buffalo gnats and turkey gnats.
Physical characteristics
These insects are usually small, dark, and hump-backed, with short antennae and broad wings. Species vary in colour, including black, brown, grey, and yellowish tones.
Life cycle and habitat
Black fly larvae and pupae develop in running water, especially clean streams and rivers. Adults emerge to mate, and females of blood-feeding species use blood meals to support egg development.
Human and animal impact
Black flies are important nuisance pests because they bite humans and many animals, including livestock and birds. Their bites can cause pain, swelling, and itching.
Key facts
- Black flies are true flies in the family Simuliidae.
- They are small, hump-backed insects and are often dark in colour.
- Adult males generally feed on nectar, while females of many species bite for blood before laying eggs.
- Their larvae typically develop in flowing freshwater such as streams and rivers.
- Black flies are widespread in Canada and are well known as biting pests.
Black flies are a familiar nuisance insect across much of Canada, with more than 160 species recorded. They are especially associated with rural, wooded, and streamside areas, and they are part of Canadian public-health and pest-management discussions.
Frequently asked questions
What are black flies?
Why are they called buffalo gnats?
Where do black flies breed?
Do all black flies bite humans?
Are black flies found in Canada?
Do black flies spread disease in North America?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_flySupports: Family Simuliidae, common names, and worldwide species count.
- Government of Canada — https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/species-risk-public-registry/publications/wild-species-2010/chapter-16.htmlSupports: Canadian classification, physical description, and number of species known in Canada.
- Orkin Canada — https://www.orkincanada.ca/pests/flies/black-flies/Supports: Presence of more than 160 species in Canada and nuisance-pest status.
- University of Maine Cooperative Extension — https://extension.umaine.edu/home-and-garden-ipm/fact-sheets/common-name-listing/black-flies/Supports: Female biting behaviour, nectar-feeding males, and breeding in running water.
- University of Minnesota Extension — https://extension.umn.edu/outdoor-biting-insects-and-insect-relatives/black-fliesSupports: Biting behaviour, activity patterns, and lack of known disease spread in Minnesota/North America.
- Spokane Regional Health District — https://srhd.org/health-topics/environmental-health/black-fliesSupports: Size, biting behaviour, habitat near running rivers and streams, and bite effects.