Use of pupal parasitoids as biological control agents of filth flies on equine facilities

Abstract

Filth flies, including house flies, Musca domestica L., and stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) (Diptera: Muscidae), are common pests on equine farms. The use of pupal parasitoids as biological control agents for filth flies is becoming more common on equine farms; however, there is a lack of information on the execution of augmentation programs for these farms. This review of biological control of filth fly pests on equine farms provides an overview of the life history and identification of filth fly pests and common commercially available parasitoids. Additionally, recommendations for use of pupal parasitoids based on known literature are provided, and the importance of continued research in this area is highlighted. When coupled with cultural control practices and other manure management techniques, pupal parasitoids offer an environmentally sound option for mitigating on-farm fly breeding.