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Dipterans that Produce Myiasis in Animals

ByJan Šlapeta, MVDr, PhD, GradCertEd (Higher Ed)
Reviewed/Revised Aug 2022

Larval dipterans may develop in the subcutaneous tissues of the skin or organs of many domestic animals, producing a condition known as myiasis. There are two types of myiases based on extent of host dependence. In facultative myiasis, the fly larvae are usually free-living; however, in certain circumstances, these larvae can adapt themselves to a parasitic dependence on a host. In obligatory myiasis, the fly larvae are completely parasitic, ie, they depend on the host to complete the life cycle. Without the host, obligatory parasites will die.

For More Information

  • Also see pet health content regarding flies and mosquitoes of dogs, cats, and horses.

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