The horse and deer flies (Diptera:Tabanidae) of Texas - Introduction

The horse and deer flies (Diptera: Tabanidae) are of economic importance due to the annoying blood-feeding habits of the females and their ability to spread diseases of veterinarian and medical importance, Severe attacks on livestock prevent normal feeding activities and may contribute to poor weight gain and/or milk production. Species that are notorious human pests may also have a negative economic impact by limiting the use of recreation areas for fishing, hunting, and leisure. This publication is the first attempt to summarize available knowledge of the tabanid fauna of Texas. It is based on a combination of published records, recent collections, rearing of field-collected larvae and pupae, and examination of the collections of numerous universities, museums and private individuals. To date, 109 species of Tabanidae are known to occur in Texas. Twenty-three species are reported from the state for the first time and an additional 36 species thought to possibly occur in the state are discussed. This publication presents current knowledge on the systematics and biology of the Tabanidae of Texas, and contributes to the study of biodiversity of the state's insects. Biogeographic affinities of tabanid species are discussed. Descriptions of developmental stages, natural enemies, collection methods, and taxonomic characters are included. This publication contains taxonomic keys for identifying larval stages to genus, and adult specimens to the genus and species levels. In some cases, such as for Chrysops and Tabanus, separate keys are presented for male and female specimens. Photographs of wing patterns of Silvius, Neochrysops, Chrysops, Diachlorus, and Haematopota are included. A listing of historic references, description, comments section, distribution map illustrating county collection records, and a detailed collection information is given for each species. Comment sections describe the species' occurrence in neighboring states, national distribution and larval habitat.