Circadian activity pattern in the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans

Abstract

Abstract. Activity rhythms of Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) were assessed under constant conditions using actographs.In LD 12:12 h, activity was almost completely diurnal, had a 24 h period, and peaked 4 h after lights‐on.In constant darkness, activity peaked in the early afternoon and the period of the rhythm was c. 26 h, indicating a circadian pacemaker.A delay in feeding shortened the free‐running period in constant dark to c. 24 h.In constant light, flies were arrhythmic.Starvation also affected activity, with 24‐ and 48‐h starved flies being as much as 20 times more active than recently fed flies.

Olfaction in vector-host interactions

“…In contrast to tsetse, stable flies also feed on plant-related sugar sources (Jones et al 1992, Parr 1962) and blood feeding is often daily (Venkatesh and Morrison 1980) or even more frequent (S Schofield, unpublished data). In terms of endogenous activity, laboratory studies suggest a single daily peak, with a free running period of approximately 26 hours (Schofield and Brady 1996). Diel field activity is often bimodal (Beresford and Sutcliffe 2006, Charlwood and Lopes 1980, Kunz and Monty 1976, Schofield 1998, for example with morning and evening peaks, though unimodal patterns have also been described Campbell 1985, Harley 1964).…”

“…However, because flux loses its distinction from concentration where flights are substantially faster (e.g. stable flies, tsetse) or slower than wind speed (Paynter andBrady 1996, Schofield 1996), and because it is more challenging computationally, it seems prudent to express exposure intensity based on concentration. However, this comes with the caveat that impacts of test conditions on odour presentation should be considered when interpreting results.…”

Visual and olfactory responses of haematophagous Diptera to host stimuli

“…Activation and ranging behaviour. Laboratory studies show that Stomoxys calcitrans L. activity is endogenously controlled with an underlying U‐shaped diurnal pattern ( Schofield & Brady 1996) similar to that of tsetse. In the field, there is a late‐afternoon peak in the arrival of Stomoxys spp.…”

Effects of carbon dioxide, acetone and 1‐octen‐3‐ol on the activity of the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitmns

“…Experimenral insects. Adult Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) were reared as described by Schofield & Brady (1996). Flies for experiments were 3days old and had not received blood for at least 24h.…”