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[Display omitted] • Strong effects of larval density on performance. • Species dependent growth and metabolic performance across diets. • Overall best larval performance on brewer's spent grain-based substrate. • BSF-larvae showed lowest metabolic costs and highest net growth efficiency. Large scale production of insect larvae is considered a sustainable way to upcycle various organic waste- and by-products into more valuable food and feed products. The sustainability of insect larvae production depends on the substrates and species being used, but comparative studies that include both growth and efficiency are lacking. Here we compare larval fitness, including survival, development time, weight, substrate conversion efficiency, substrate reduction, and metabolic parameters across different combinations of densities and waste- and by-product-based substrates on the two fly species, the house fly (Musca domestica) and the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens). The waste- and by-product-based substrates were a brewer's spent grain-based substrate, a digested sludge-based substrate, and a wheat bran/deproteinized grass-based substrate all highly abundant and of low value. Substrate and density significantly impacted on most larval growth and metabolic performance traits, but dependent on species. The brewer's spent grain-based substrate generally gave the highest performance in terms of larval weight, larval yield, and substrate conversion efficiency for both species, while a high density gave a higher larval yield and substrate conversion efficiency, but lower larval weight. Generally, black soldier fly larvae showed lower metabolic costs and higher net growth efficiency than house fly larvae. Altogether, our results demonstrate that both larval species, substrate, and larval densities affect larval growth and metabolic performance, and subsequently the scope for valorizing waste- or by-products to achieve a sustainable production of food and feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Houseflies (Musca domestica L.) are an important medical and livestock pest that not only annoy animals and humans but can also transmit several human and animal diseases. Synthetic chemical repellents have been the first option for fly management, but most have negative impacts on humans, non-target organisms, and the environment generally. Plant essential oils are active against repelling insect pests and affecting their life cycles. Repellents from these oils are an important strategy as a new, effective, and environmentally friendly alternative for housefly management and reducing disease transmission. We investigated the housefly repellency and storage stability of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and anise (Pimpinella anisum) EOs and their combinations using the repellency of α-cypermethrin as a reference. Combinations (fennel + anise; 1:1) were the most effective and stable and more stable repellents than single EOs and α-cypermethrin. Most significantly, all single and combination essential oils were safe for two non-target species: guppies (Poecilia reticulata) and earthworms (Eudrilus eugeniae). The combinations make excellent, natural, and stable repellents for housefly management and are suitable to be developed into environmentally friendly products. Essential oils (EOs) are effective repellents and eco-friendly alternatives. We tested single and combination EOs of fennel and anise for repellency and stability against houseflies. All treatments were stored at 27 °C for up to 360 days. Efficacies were compared against α-cypermethrin as a reference. Safety bioassay used on two representative non-target species (guppies and earthworms) confirmed safety. The strongest repellency and stability, 100% repellency and RC50 of 0.4 mL/m3 on day 1, was achieved by a fennel + anise EO combination (1:1). After 360 days, these combinations remained effective (95% repellency), and RC50 = 0.8 mL/m3. The EO combinations were more effective than all single EOs and α-cypermethrin at all times, showing strong synergy with a synergistic repellent index of 2.4 to 3.3. This fennel + anise EO combination was more than 24 times more effective as a repellent than α-cypermethrin. Morphological damage included damaged antennae with twisted flagella and abnormal aristae. All single and combination EOs were not toxic to the non-targets and could be considered safe, whereas α-cypermethrin was highly toxic to them. Thus, the fennel + anise EO combination has great potential to be developed as a safe, natural repellent for managing housefly populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The house fly, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae), is a significant pest in livestock farms and a major concern for both humans and farmed animals due to its ability to transmit over 200 pathogens. The use of pupal parasitoids is a sustainable strategy for controlling this pest. Spalangia cameroni Perkins (Hymenoptera: Spalangiidae) and Muscidifurax zaraptor Girault & Sanders (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) are commonly used as biocontrol agents for M. domestica. The objective of this study was to determine the oviposition peak of female parasitoids in relation to their age and the sex ratio of the adult progeny. For both species, 20 fresh M. domestica pupae (24–48 h old) were provided daily to each fertilised female for 14 days, after which the pupae were checked for parasitoid emergence. A control group of 20 pupae without female parasitoids was maintained. The results showed that S. cameroni had a higher overall percentage of parasitisation (57.7%) compared with M. zaraptor (32.4%). The parasitisation ratio of S. cameroni remained almost constant throughout the 14‐day period, whereas that of M. zaraptor decreased drastically after Day 11. Peak oviposition for S. cameroni was on Day 5 with 13 parasitised pupae per female, whereas M. zaraptor parasitised eight pupae per day on 4 days during its peak oviposition period (between Days 3 and 8). The newly emerged parasitoids had a skewed sex ratio towards females: 81% for S. cameroni and 66% for M. zaraptor. The presence of these parasitoid species resulted in fewer new house fly emergences than in the control group, where natural pupal mortality was lower in the absence of parasitoids. These findings may be useful for optimising the mass production and time‐use of the two parasitoid species for the management of house flies in livestock farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for insect mass production requires methodologies that allow for easy separation of males and females as the two sexes can have very different economic values. The common housefly, Musca domestica (L.) (Diptera: Muscidae), is one of the candidate species for industrial production. In this species, males typically develop faster and are smaller than females. Exploiting housefly sexual bimaturism (sexual difference in developmental time) could allow the maintenance of colonies with a higher proportion of females, which is favourable in terms of egg yield. Here, we report an artificial selection experiment of breeding early‐emerging males with late‐emerging females for six generations, with the aim to increase the time interval between emergence of males and females. The level of sexual bimaturism was not increased after six generations of selection. The life‐history traits fecundity, egg‐to‐adult survival and hatchability were not affected by the selection procedure. Wing size measurement revealed that early‐ and late‐emerging males did not differ in size, suggesting that developmental time and body size are decoupled in this sex. Still, large females consistently emerged later than small females, suggesting an intricate sex‐specific genetic architecture for size and developmental time in the housefly. Our results are relevant in the context of mass production, providing new insight into the manipulation and maintenance of female‐biased sex ratios in production colonies of the common housefly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some dipteran flies play an important role in the transmission of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoan and metazoan parasites in humans and other animals. Despite this importance, knowledge of the prevalence and molecular characteristics of some pathogens in flies is limited, and no data are available for Türkiye. In this study, we investigated the possible vector role of muscid fly species for the transmission of Enterocytozoon bieneusi Desportes (Chytridiopsida: Enterocytozoonidae), Encephalitozoon spp., Coxiella burnetii Derrick (Legionellales: Coxiellaceae) and Thelazia spp. using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequence analysis. The flies were trapped in different animal‐related places and surroundings from two different geographical regions of Türkiye including Central Anatolia and Middle Black Sea. According to the morphological keys, 850 (85%), 141 (14.1%) and 6 (0.6%) of the total of 1000 fly specimens identified as Musca domestica Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae), Stomoxys calcitrans Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae) and Musca autumnalis De Geer (Diptera: Muscidae), respectively. The other species including Haematobia irritans Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae), Muscina stabulans Fallén (Diptera: Muscidae) and Hydrotaea ignava Harris (Diptera: Muscidae) were each represented by a single specimen. Screening of the pathogens identified E. bieneusi only in M. domestica with a prevalence of 2.4%. Sequence analyses identified three known genotypes, Type IV, BEB6 and BEB8, and one novel genotype named AEUEb of E. bieneusi in M. domestica. Coxiella burnetii was detected in M. domestica and S. calcitrans with prevalences of 2.9% and 2.8%, respectively. The one specimen of H. ignava was also positive for C. burnetii. Encephalitozoon spp. and Thelazia spp. were not found in the examined specimens. Our results contribute to the current knowledge on the vector potential of muscid flies and their possible role in the transmission dynamics of certain pathogens, especially in regions where diseases are prevalent and affect public and animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the threat to public health posed by antibiotic resistance transmission, environmental monitoring is essential for tracking antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Houseflies, being ubiquitous organisms capable of carrying and disseminating ARGs, serve as suitable indicators for environmental monitoring. In this study, we employ metagenomic approaches to investigate housefly body surface samples from five typical sites associated with human activities. The investigation reveals microbiome diversity among the samples, along with variations in the occurrence and mobility potential of ARGs. Metagenomic analysis indicates that the composition of ARGs on housefly body surfaces is influenced by environmental ARGs, which may be enriched on the housefly body surface. The resistance genes related to multidrug, β‐lactam, bacitracin, and tetracycline were the predominant ARGs detected, with multidrug‐related ARGs consistently exhibiting dominance. Furthermore, the abundance of ARGs in the different housefly body surface samples was found to correlate with the population density and mobility of the sampling site. Natural environments exhibited the lowest ARG abundance, while areas with higher population density and limited population mobility displayed higher ARG abundance. This study emphasizes the effectiveness of houseflies as monitors for environmental ARGs and underscores their potential for assessing and controlling antibiotic resistance risks in urban environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitin oligosaccharide (CHOS) is a chitin derivative with excellent biological activities. Enzymatic hydrolysis of chitin-rich biomass into CHOS is a hot topic in research on the high-value utilization of chitin resources. The disadvantages of complex preparation and purification processes and the high cost of chitin-degrading enzymes limit large-scale enzymatic production and application of CHOS. In this study, the activity of chitinase increased from 1.8 U/mL to 3.52 U/mL by 94.4% after optimizing the carbon and nitrogen source of Chitiniphilus sp. LZ32 fermentation. An enzyme production-adsorption-enzymolysis-product separation (EAES) system was constructed using fermentation, an adsorption purification module, and a product ultrafiltration module of a chitin-degrading enzyme. CHOS production by continuous enzymatic hydrolysis was performed in an EAES system using housefly larval powder (HLP) as the substrate. After the C. sp. LZ32 fermentation broth was circulated in the adsorption module for 90 min, the adsorption rate of the chitin-degrading enzyme reached more than 90%. The ultrafiltration module effectively separated CHOS at an operating pressure of 2 bar. Four batches of CHOS were produced in the EAES system using repeated batch fermentation. The running time of a single batch decreased from 115 h in the first batch to 48 h, and the CHOS output of each batch gradually increased. The total CHOS output was 61 g, and the production efficiency was 0.24 g/h. The CHOS produced by the EAES system (ECHOS) has high antioxidant activity. In this study, the EAES system was used to simplify the purification and separation steps of CHOS preparation, and the continuous production of CHOS was realized, which has potential application prospects in the field of green CHOS production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpouse: This study aimed to assess the influence of the presence of synanthropic flies in food preparation environments on the transmission of potentially zoonotic gastrointestinal protozoa. Methods: Flies were captured using a glass containing water, fruits, and pieces of protein. Results: Approximately 260 flies from four different species were captured: Musca domestica (76.92%; 200/260), Cochliomyia hominivorax (17.31%; 45/260), Lucilia cuprina (3.85%; 10/260), and Hydrotaea aenescens (1.92%; 5/260). Protozoa were identified through microscopic analysis after macerating these arthropods contained in their respective eppendorfs, using two techniques, namely Mini-FLOTAC® and centrifugal sedimentation with Ziehl–Neelsen staining. The analysis revealed a concerning scenario regarding the epidemiological chain of gastrointestinal protozoa in Sergipe, Northeast Brazil. The positivity rate was 26.92% (14/52) of the pools, with 100.00% (5/5) in Aracaju, 30.00% (3/10) in Nossa Senhora do Socorro, 27.27% (3/11) in Nossa Senhora da Glória, 12.50% (2/16) in Carmópolis, and 10.00% (1/10) in Nossa Senhora das Dores. Two species of protozoa were identified, namely Cryptosporidium spp. (23.08%; 12/52) and Entamoeba spp. (9.62%; 5/52). The involvement of two fly species in the maintenance of the life cycle of these protozoa was noticeable, specifically M. domestica (27.50%; 11/40) and C. hominivorax (22.22%; 2/9). Conclusions: Counties analyzed had an human development index (HDI) considered medium; however, they still faced socioeconomic problems such as absence of sanitation systems, waste accumulation in the streets, and illegal waste disposal, which could favor the proliferation of these vectors and the spread of these gastrointestinal protozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Management solutions for waste in southern Thailand, such as fly larvae, are tested in a laboratory using different substrates and wastes from the Thai agricultural sector. The nutritional content of the immature stages of Musca domestica Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae) and Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae, especially their protein and fat contents, makes them a potential animal feed. Laboratory strains of M. domestica and H. illucens were reared on selected substrates to examine how diet influenced their performance and nutritional composition. Waste from aquaculture, vegetables, and fruits in southern Thailand was examined for larval diet and showed promise as a rearing substrate for these insects. Musca domestica larvae reared on fishery waste achieved the highest larval weight and fat content, whereas H. illucens larvae reared on an aquaculture waste diet had the highest protein content.These findings imply aquaculture waste could be the best choice for large-scale fly larvae production, particularly as a protein feed additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several human and animal pathogens transmit into the food chain through houseflies as mechanical vectors, one of which is E. coli O157:H7. E. coli O157:H7 can express Shiga toxin (Stx) which can cause diarrhea, hemorrhagic colitis, and potentially fatal hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) in humans. Some pathogen strains show resistance against various antibiotics, causing complex health problems. This study aims to analyze the presence of antibiotic-resistant E. coli O157:H7 bacteria carried by houseflies (M. domestica) in the food court IPB Dramaga campus area. Detection of E. coli O157:H7 on fly legs using qPCR method based on MU 7.2.3.32-8. E. coli O157:H7 isolates were tested for sensitivity to the antibiotic’s ciprofloxacin, ampicillin, tetracycline, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, cefepime, chloramphenicol, ceftazidime, cefotaxime, and ceftriaxone using the Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. This study isolated 5 E. coli isolates (5/40; 12.5%), and 2 of them were confirmed as E. coli O157:H7. One isolate of E. coli O157:H7 was resistant against ampicillin and tetracycline, and one isolate was resistant against ampicillin, tetracycline, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and ceftazidime. The multi-drug resistance was identified only in 1 isolate of E. coli O157:H7.Houseflies collected from the food court have the potential to transmit antibiotic-resistant E. coli O157:H7 around the IPB campus.

Some insect species have been proposed as a sustainable alternative to traditional animal‐based food and feed sources. Optimisation of insect production can generally be achieved using two main approaches: optimising environmental conditions and improving traits of interest through selective breeding. These avenues are not inseparable as performance of a genotype might differ between environments due to phenotypic plasticity and because genotypes can respond differently to environmental changes, that is genotype‐by‐environment interactions (G × E). In insect production, diets can be of variable quality and consist of waste‐ and by‐products of low nutritional value, which might result in decreased performance and/or increased trait variability within a population. Therefore, it is of interest to investigate how genotypes perform across various diets. Here, we investigated plasticity and G × E for mean performance and trait variation, which we define as the ability of a genotype to produce consistent phenotypes within and across environments. We did this by rearing 190 full‐sib families of house fly larvae, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae), on two diets based on either alfalfa, Medicago sativa L. (Fabales: Fabaceae), or deproteinated grass. Four larval traits were assessed: egg‐to‐larva viability, surface area, dry weight and relative lipid content. Reaction norms were used to investigate the effects of diet on full‐sib family mean and trait variation within and across environments. We found that families reared on the grass‐based diet had higher performance across all investigated traits than families reared on the alfalfa‐based diet. For both mean performance and trait variation, we found G × E for all investigated traits. These findings suggest that there is genetic variation for plasticity (slope of reaction norms) for both trait mean and trait variation, and thus that there is a potential to breed for genotypes with high performance as well as for genotypes with low trait variation within and across diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candida albicans , a common commensal and opportunistic fungal pathogen in humans, can occasionally progress to disseminated candidiasis which is a serious condition with a high morbidity and fatality rate. The emergence of drug-resistant fungal strains compels us to look for an efficient treatment solution. Our earlier studies have demonstrated that the unique antimicrobial peptide AMP-17 from Musca domestica has a strong antifungal impact on C. albicans in vitro. Here, we verified the therapeutic effects of AMP-17 on systemic candidiasis in vivo and the peptide interacts with fluconazole, a common antifungal medication, to treat systemic candidiasis. In the disseminated candidiasis model of Galleria mellonella and mice challenged with C. albicans , AMP-17 increased the survival rates of infected larvae and mice to 66.7 and 75%, respectively. Furthermore, the peptide lowered the load of C. albicans in the infected larvae and the kidneys of the mice by nearly 90%. Additional histological examination and measurements of plasma cytokines showed that the injection of AMP-17 markedly reduced the inflammatory response and balanced cytokine expression. Furthermore, checkerboard micro dilution experiments demonstrated that AMP-17 and fluconazole worked in synergy to inhibit C. albicans in the biofilm mode. According to morphological studies, AMP-17 and fluconazole together decreased the production of hyphae throughout the C. albicans biofilm formation process, loosening the mature biofilms' structure and lowering the amount of carbohydrates in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the biofilms. Taken together, these results showed that AMP-17 would be a viable treatment for systemic candidiasis and might be a different approach to combating Candida biofilm, either by itself or in conjunction with fluconazole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predation exerts a profound influence on the evolution of camouflage and detection abilities in both predators and prey. For instance, flower‐visiting spiders need to ensure their concealment when ambushing on flowers, which compels pollinators to check any spider cues cautiously before landing. Although numerous studies have examined the visual camouflage of spiders deceiving bees, little is known regarding whether spiders also employ olfactory camouflage. Additionally, the detection of spiders by dipteran insects is often overlooked, despite them being major non‐bee pollinators. Here, we explored the detection ability of dipteran pollinators and the crypsis skill of spiders from both olfactory and vision perspectives using the housefly Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae) as prey, the crab spider Ebrechtella tricuspidata (Fabricius) (Araneae: Thomisidae) as predators and chamomile Matricaria recutita L. (Asteraceae) as substrates. Our olfactory experiments revealed that experienced houseflies could respond to and avoid spider odour. However, this response did not appear to be innate, as naive individuals showed no aversion. Moreover, experienced houseflies did not have any avoidance behaviours to the mixed odours of spider and flower, indicating that spiders achieved olfactory crypsis utilizing floral scent. Our vision experiments and visual modelling demonstrated that houseflies could detect spiders positioned on flower. Surprisingly, instead of avoiding them, houseflies exhibited a preference for flowers occupied by female spiders, suggesting the attractive nature of female spider colouration. This paper provides evidence for the first time that crab spiders use floral scent to achieve olfactory crypsis and proposes a potential yellow‐signalling mechanism for crab spiders to attract insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary change can be a strong evolutionary force and lead to rapid adaptation in organisms. High-fat and high-sugar diets can challenge key metabolic pathways, negatively affecting other life history traits and inducing pathologies such as obesity and diabetes. In this study, we use experimental evolution to investigate the plastic and evolutionary responses to nutritionally unbalanced diets. We reared replicated lines of larvae of the housefly Musca domestica on a fat-enriched (FAT), a sugar-enriched (SUG), and a control (CTRL) diet for thirteen generations. We measured development time in each generation and larval growth and fat accumulation in generations 1, 7, and 13. Subsequently, all lines were reared for one generation on the control diet to detect any plastic and evolutionary changes. In the first generation, time to pupation decreased on a fat-rich diet and increased on a sugar-rich diet. The fat-rich diet increased fat accumulation and, to a lesser extent, the dry weight of the larvae. Multigenerational exposure to unbalanced diets caused compensatory changes in development time, dry weight, and absolute and relative fat content, although pattern and timing depended on diet and trait. When put back on a control diet, many of the changes induced by the unbalanced diets disappeared, indicating that the diet has large plastic effects. Nevertheless, fat-evolved lines still grew significantly larger than the sugar-evolved lines, and sugar-evolved lines had consistently lower fat content. This can be an effect of parental diet or an evolutionary change in nutrient metabolism as a consequence of multigenerational exposure to unbalanced diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hemoplasma infections in cattle are caused by Mycoplasma wenyonii and Candidatus Mycoplasma haemobos and induce asymptomatic or chronic infections but occasionally lead to life-threatening hemolytic anemia. Despite the global distribution of bovine hemoplasmas, information regarding their transmission vectors and prevalence is still lacking in the Republic of Korea. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the infection rate of bovine hemoplasma in cattle and houseflies and to assess the risk factors associated with hemoplasma infection in cattle. Methods: Overall, 376 blood samples were collected from Korean indigenous cattle (male, 10−13 months old), along with 2,690 houseflies (Musca domestica) from the same farm where the cattle were raised. PCR assays targeting the 16S rRNA gene were performed to detect hemoplasmas, and positive samples were sequenced. Results: The infection rate of bovine hemoplasmas was 50.8% (191/376) in cattle and 7.4% in pooled houseflies. Among cattle, 18.6% (70/376) and 20.0% (75/376) tested positive for M. wenyonii and Candidatus M. haemobos, respectively. Conversely, in houseflies, Candidatus M. haemobos was more frequently detected (5.9%) than M. wenyonii (0.7%). Co-infection was 12.2% (46/376) in cattle and 0.7% in flies. Furthermore, hemoplasma infection was significantly associated with the grazing experience of their dams. Cattle born to cows with grazing experience exhibited a higher risk for M. wenyonii infection (odds ratio [OR] = 1.62; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03−2.55; P = 0.045), whereas these cattle had a lower risk for Candidatus M. haemobos infection (OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.19−0.74; P = 0.000) than animals born to cows without grazing experience. The sequences obtained from houseflies were confirmed as Candidatus M. haemobos, which displayed high similarity (98.2−100%) to those from cattle obtained in this study. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this study represents the first report of bovine hemoplasmas identified in houseflies. This molecular evidence suggests that houseflies may be possible vectors for Candidatus M. haemobos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Single-domain von Willebrand factor type C (SVWC) constitute a protein family predominantly identified in arthropods, characterized by a SVWC domain and involved in diverse physiological processes such as host defense, stress resistance, and nutrient metabolism. Nevertheless, the physiological mechanisms underlying these functions remain inadequately comprehended. Results: A massive expansion of the SVWC gene family in Musca domestica (MdSVWC) was discovered, with a count of 35. MdSVWC1 was selected as the representative of the SVWC family for functional analysis, which led to the identification of the immune function of MdSVWC1 as a novel pattern recognition receptor. MdSVWC1 is highly expressed in both the fat body and intestines and displays acute induction upon bacterial infection. Recombinant MdSVWC1 binds to surfaces of both bacteria and yeast through the recognition of multiple pathogen-associated molecular patterns and exhibits Ca2+-dependent agglutination activity. MdSVWC1 mutant flies exhibited elevated mortality and hindered bacterial elimination following bacterial infection as a result of reduced hemocyte phagocytic capability and weakened expression of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) genes. In contrast, administration of recombinant MdSVWC1 provided protection to flies from bacterial challenges by promoting phagocytosis and AMP genes expression, thereby preventing bacterial colonization. MdSPN16, a serine protease inhibitor, was identified as a target protein of MdSVWC1. It was postulated that the interaction of MdSVWC1 with MdSPN16 would result in the activation of an extracellular proteolytic cascade, which would then initiate the Toll signaling pathway and facilitate the expression of AMP genes. Conclusions: MdSVWC1 displays activity as a soluble pattern recognition receptor that regulates cellular and humoral immunity by recognizing microbial components and facilitating host defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The male- limited inheritance of Y chromosomes favors alleles that increase male fitness, often at the expense of female fitness. Determining the mechanisms underlying these sexually antagonistic effects is challenging because it can require studying Y- linked alleles while they still segregate as polymorphisms. We used a Y chromosome polymorphism in the house fly, Musca domestica, to address this challenge. Two male determining Y chromosomes (YM and IIIM) segregate as stable polymorphisms in natural populations, and they differentially affect multiple traits, including male courtship performance. We identified differentially expressed genes encoding odorant binding proteins (in the Obp56h family) as candidate agents for the courtship differences. Through network analysis and allele- specific expression measurements, we identified multiple genes on the house fly IIIM chromosome that could serve as trans regulators of Obp56h gene expression. One of those genes is homologous to Drosophila melanogaster CG2120, which encodes a transcription factor that binds near Obp56h. Upregulation of CG2120 in D. melanogaster nervous tissues reduces copulation latency, consistent with this transcription factor acting as a negative regulator of Obp56h expression. The transcription factor gene, which we name speed date, demonstrates a molecular mechanism by which a Y- linked gene can evolve male- beneficial effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe the presentation and management of ocular maggots and to identify the factors contributing to their occurrence. Study Design: Retrospective case series. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Ophthalmology Mayo Hospital Lahore from 2015 to 2022. Methods: The study involved retrospective chart analysis of patients who presented with Ophthalmomyasis and managed in the eye department. Data regarding age, gender, occupation, clinical findings, co-morbidities, associations and environmental factors were analyzed. Larvae were removed one by one under microscope. Follow up was done after 1 week, 1 month and 3 months. In patients with orbital myasis having distorted, large ulcerated wounds/socket, turpentine oil was used and larvae were removed mechanically under microscope. Results: There were 15 fifteen patients included in the study. Underlying co-morbidities were present in 60% patients and the most common being basal cell carcinoma (46.6%). Seventy four percent patients had some systemic disease; Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, AIDS, Hepatitis C etc. One third patients had external ophthalmo-myasis while two third had orbital myasis. Patients who did not complete follow-up were 33%. Use of suffocating agents like turpentine oil, periodic removal of larvae, topical and systemic antibiotics, topical lavage with copious irrigation with sterile fluids resulted in good outcome in all cases that completed the follow up. Conclusion: The majority of patients came from rural communities and had underlying co-morbidities. Timely management resulted in good outcomes for all patients who completed the follow-up, highlighting the importance of comprehensive and sustained treatment protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: House flies are important carriers of diseases and can cause economic losses in livestock by reducing feeding activity. Overuse of chemical insecticides has led to resistance in many house fly populations worldwide. This study aimed to assess how two house fly populations in Antalya, Türkiye respond to the insecticides cyfluthrin and etofenprox. By exposing adult flies to these chemicals, the researcher found that the Kemer population showed very low resistance to cyfluthrin, while the Serik population exhibited moderate resistance. For etofenprox, Kemer flies showed no resistance, and Serik flies showed very low resistance. The findings suggest that integrated pest control methods and regular resistance monitoring are necessary to manage and prevent further resistance in house fly populations. The house fly, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae), is a significant vector for many pathogens and parasites. Presence of this vector causes economic losses due to decreased feeding activity in livestock, resulting in reduced yields of products. The repeated and unconscious application of chemical insecticides has resulted in the development of resistance in the majority of house fly populations worldwide. The aim of this research was to determine the susceptibility levels of two field M. domestica populations to cyfluthrin and etofenprox in Antalya, Türkiye. The LD50 values, resistance ratios, and resistance status were determined by exposing adult house flies to the test chemicals for one hour. The Kemer population exhibited very low resistance to cyfluthrin, with a 5-fold increase, while the Serik population, in contrast, showed moderate resistance with a 29.67-fold increase. The resistance ratios of field populations to etofenprox were 2.33-fold (no resistance) for Kemer and 6.44-fold (very low resistance) for Serik, respectively. This is the first study to determine the resistance levels of house flies against cyfluthrin and etofenprox insecticides in Türkiye. To prevent or reduce the development of resistance to insecticides in house flies, integrated control methods and resistance management programs should be employed. Furthermore, it is advised that regular monitoring tests be conducted to observe the level of resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insecticide resistance in insects, driven by the overexpression of P450 enzymes, presents a significant challenge due to the enhanced metabolic detoxification of insecticides. Although the transcriptional regulation of P450 genes is not yet fully understood, G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) genes have emerged as key regulators in this process. This study is the first to associate GPCR genes with insecticide resistance in Musca domestica. We identified two key rhodopsin-like GPCR genes, ALHF_02706.g1581 and ALHF_04422.g2918, which were significantly overexpressed in the resistant ALHF strain compared to sensitive strains. Notably, both ALHF_02706.g1581 and ALHF_04422.g2918 were mapped to autosome 2, where critical but unidentified regulatory factors controlling resistance and P450 gene regulation are located. This supports our hypothesis that GPCRs function as trans-regulatory factors for P450-mediated resistance. Functional analysis using transgenic Drosophila demonstrated that overexpression of these rhodopsin-like GPCR genes increased permethrin resistance by approximately two-fold. Specifically, ALHF_02706.g1581 overexpression significantly upregulated the Drosophila resistance-related P450 genes CYP12D1, CYP6A2, and CYP6A8, while ALHF_04422.g2918 increased CYP6G1 and CYP6A2 expression, thereby enhancing insecticide detoxification in rhodopsin-like GPCR transgenic Drosophila lines. These findings suggest that these rhodopsin-like GPCR genes on autosome 2 may act as trans-regulatory factors for P450-mediated resistance, underscoring their critical role in insecticide detoxification and resistance development in M. domestica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The house fly, Musca domestica, is a cosmopolitan species known for its pestiferous nature and potential to mechanically vector numerous human and animal pathogens. Control of adult house flies often relies on insecticides formulated into food baits. However, due to the overuse of these baits, insecticide resistance has developed to all insecticide classes currently registered for use in the United States. Field populations of house flies have developed resistance to imidacloprid, the most widely used neonicotinoid insecticide for fly control, through both physiological and behavioral resistance mechanisms. In the current study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the inheritance and dominance of behavioral resistance to imidacloprid in a lab‐selected behaviorally resistant house fly strain. Additionally, we conducted feeding preference assays to assess the feeding responses of genetic cross progeny to imidacloprid. Our results confirmed that behavioral resistance to imidacloprid is inherited as a polygenic trait, though it is inherited differently between male and female flies. We also demonstrated that feeding preference assays can be instrumental in future genetic inheritance studies as they provide direct insight into the behavior of different strains under controlled conditions that reveal, interactions between the organism and the insecticide. The findings of this study carry significant implications for pest management and underscore the need for integrated pest control approaches that consider genetic and ecological factors contributing to resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The common housefly, Musca domestica, known for transmitting over 100 infections, was studied using green-synthesized Cadmium Sulfide nanoparticles (CdS NPs) from Agaricus bisporus. These CdS NPs were tested on third-instar larvae under laboratory conditions using dipping and feeding methods with concentrations (75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 µg/mL). The toxicity, measured by LC50, was found to be 138 µg/mL for dipping treatment and 123 µg/mL for feeding treatment. Analysis with an energy-dispersive X-ray microanalyzer confirmed Cd accumulation in the larval midgut, indicating penetration of CdS NPs into the organism, which may potentially increase their toxicity. CdS NPs caused disruptions in Heat Shock Protein 70, cell apoptosis, and various biochemical components. Scanning electron microscopy revealed morphological abnormalities in larvae, pupae, and adults exposed to CdS NPs. Ultrastructural examination showed significant midgut tissue abnormalities in larvae treated with 123 µg/mL of CdS NPs. Our study demonstrated that green-synthesized CdS NPs from A. bisporus can effectively control the development of M. domestica larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Mbarara District, smallholder farmers face challenges in accessing affordable protein sources for broiler chicken production. Housefly maggots are a cheap sustainable source of protein in broiler chicken production that smallholder farmers can employ to improve food security. This study evaluated farmers' awareness, access, and adoption of maggots as a protein source. A mixed-methods approach surveyed 130 broiler producers. Results show 71.5% of farmers are aware of maggotbased feeds, but only 6.1% use them, indicating a knowledge-application gap. Wealthier farmers were more likely to adopt this approach. To address this gap, the study recommends targeted media campaigns, educational initiatives, and demonstration projects showcasing economic benefits. Establishing local maggot production facilities, farmer cooperatives, and knowledge-sharing platforms could further support adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Adult house flies found in livestock operations pose significant challenges not only as nuisance pests but also as vectors of a wide range of microbial pathogens affecting both humans and animals. This study investigated bacterial community composition and diversity in female house flies and cattle manure collected from dairy cattle farms across three US states. The findings revealed that flies carried bacterial taxa acquired from their environment, capturing the entire bacterial microbiome from manure along with other taxa likely acquired from the animals. Taxa of potential pathogens were highly abundant in house flies, suggesting that flies pose a biosecurity risk in spreading microbes with human and animal importance both within dairy operations and potentially off-site. Adult house flies (Musca domestica L.) inhabiting dairy farms not only are nuisance pests but also harbor and disseminate bacteria. We examined the bacterial community composition, diversity, environmental sources, and prevalence in individual adult female house flies and cattle manure samples collected monthly from Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee dairy farms between May and August 2021. Individual house flies carried diverse bacterial communities, encompassing all bacterial taxa (100%) identified across manure samples, and additional species likely acquired from the animals. Bacterial community assemblage in house flies and manure samples within farms varied by month. Some taxa were differentially associated with either house flies (Corynebacterium, Acinetobacter, and Staphylococcus) or manure samples (Treponema, Succinivibrio, and Clostridia). House fly bacterial communities mostly contained specialist species originating from manure, with several taxa (Escherichia, Corynebacterium, Turicibacter) being potential pathogens of livestock and humans. These findings further support the role of house flies as carriers of cattle-associated bacteria, including pathogens, and their potential for disseminating these microbes among cattle and to neighboring environments. Since their bacterial communities provide a snapshot of their surrounding environment, house flies also serve as effective sentinels in xenosurveillance strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animals encounter diverse microbial communities throughout their lifetime, which exert varying selection pressures. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which lyse or inhibit microbial growth, are a first line of defense against some of these microbes. Here we examine how developmental variation in microbial exposure has affected the evolution of expression and amino acid sequences of Defensins (an ancient class of AMPs) in the house fly (Musca domestica). The house fly is a well-suited model for this work because it trophically associates with varying microbial communities throughout its life history and its genome contains expanded families of AMPs, including Defensins. We identified two subsets of house fly Defensins: one expressed in larvae or pupae, and the other expressed in adults. The amino acid sequences of these two Defensin subsets form distinct monophyletic clades, and they are located in separate gene clusters in the genome. The adult-expressed Defensins evolve faster than larval/pupal Defensins, consistent with different selection pressures across developmental stages. Our results therefore suggest that varied microbial communities encountered across life history can shape the evolutionary trajectories of immune genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Houseflies (Musca domestica) (Diptera: Muscidae) are medically important insect species because they serve as vectors of pathogens. The study generally described the sexual dimorphism of M. domestica based on their wing size and wing shape. This study examined 25 males and 25 females of F1 offspring from wild-caught M. domestica parents. The wings were digitized and 17 landmarks were obtained, scaled, translated, and rotated in General Procrustes Analysis. The wing size (centroid size) of male M. domestica species was significantly larger compared to females (t = - 2.38, df = 48, p = 0.0200). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Relative Warp Analysis (RWA) revealed that 29.72% of shape variation from the original data was attributed to a narrow wing shape, and 14.60% toa broad wing shape. Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA) successfully distinguished female and male species based on wing shape, in which males have narrower wings compared to females, indicating the occurrence of sexual dimorphism in wings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to create an electrostatic window screen to keep stable flies and houseflies out of cattle barns. The screen comprised three identical framed metal nets arranged in parallel at specific intervals. The central net was connected to a negative-voltage generator to impart a negative charge, while the other two nets were grounded and placed on either side of the charged net. This configuration generated a corona-discharging electric field between the nets. The electric field produced negative ions and ozone around the negatively charged net, deterring houseflies from entering. Additionally, the screen emitted sparks via arc discharge to repel stable flies that did not exhibit avoidance behavior. The spark irradiation was intense enough to swiftly propel flies backward upon entering the electric field, ultimately leading to their demise. In summary, the device functioned as a corona-discharging screen to repel houseflies and as an arc-discharging screen to eliminate stable flies through spark irradiation. This study provides an experimental foundation for the development of an innovative device to manage undesirable flies in cattle barns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Houseflies serve as vectors of diseases in animals and humans. Chemical pesticides are a practical way of eliminating insects; however, resistance to insecticides has been reported. This study aims to evaluate the adulticidal efficacy of cypermethrin, tetramethrin, and piperonyl butoxide in housefly. Methods: Adult flies were cultured within net enclosures using completely randomized design with four replications each treatment. Treatment A was water and served as the negative control, treatment B was cypermethrin + tetramethrin + piperonyl butoxide 32% EC and served as the positive control, and treatment C was cypermethrin + tetramethrin + piperonyl butoxide 48% EC. The number of dead houseflies were counted 15, 30, 60, and 120 minutes post- application of treatments. The results were analyzed through analysis of variance (P≤0.05) followed by Tukey’s HSD (honestly significant difference). Results and Discussion: The values for the cumulative mean and percentage of killed houseflies were all significantly different from each other, with treatment C showing the highest values, followed by treatment B, then treatment A. The maximum adulticidal effect of treatment C was apparent within 15 minutes post-application, while the maximum adulticidal effect of treatment B was observed within 30 minutes after application. Conclusion: Results suggest that treatment C was a more effective adulticidal than other groups. Using cypermethrin + tetramethrin + piperonyl butoxide 48% EC can be the solution to the problem, but it should be noted that future resistance may occur. Increased concentrations may also imply environmental, human, and animal health hazards.

Larvae of Hydrotaea are facultative predators of larvae of flies commonly found in poultry farms, chicken and pig waste, and decaying carcasses. One species, the black dump fly, Hydrotaea aenescens (Wiedemann, 1830), coexists with the housefly Musca domestica (Linnaeus, 1758) in these environments and has been employed in the biological control of the housefly in the USA and Germany. To assess the predatory efficacy of H. aenescens larvae on M. domestica larvae, we conducted controlled laboratory experiments in which we selected larvae of different sizes of the larvae and the densities of both predator and prey. We set up the experiment using adult flies from a poultry farm and reared the larvae they produced in our laboratory. Our findings indicate that second‐ and third‐instar H. aenescens larvae effectively suppressed populations of housefly larvae under laboratory conditions, especially when the latter was smaller or the same size as the former. Under these ideal experimental conditions, a single H. aenescens larva consumed up to 29 larvae of M. domestica, potentially leading to a complete eradication of the housefly population at predator–prey density levels of 1:1 and 1:4, but only when considering both the natural mortality rate of M. domestica larvae and the additional mortality caused by H. aenescens larvae. These results corroborate a pattern previously observed in other predatory larvae and have important implications for biological control and integrated pest management programs targeting M. domestica in poultry and swine farms across South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The use of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) and house fly (Musca domestica) as an alternative for farm animal feeding has very important implications for sustainability since it does not require the use of resources such as water and land for production, in addition to contributing to food security, especially in locations with a reduced supply of animal feed. Thus, the use of these insects as a source of nutrients can reduce the need for supplementation and the use of grains and forages. Dietary alternatives using insect-based products as an alternative for farm animal nutrition have been the object of study due to the high nutritional value of these feeds and the costs related to both their production and consequently their commercialization. Thus, the use of flies, especially larvae, has a high content of proteins and lipids (fat), as well as minerals and essential nutrients for development and growth, directly impacting the production of these animals, whether meat or milk. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compile data from the literature on the nutritional value of adults and larvae of Black soldier (Hermetia illucens) and housefly (Musca domestica) as a dietary alternative for animal feed. The Prisma checklist was used. After reviewing the data found in the literature, following the systematic review, it was noted that studies emerge that larvae of black soldier flies and domestic flies of the order Diptera obtain essential sources in the nutrition of ruminants, in addition to obtaining rapid digestibility, thus adhering to reproduction with high nutritional content, due to incident levels of protein, lipids, and minerals in M. domestica and Lucilia sericata, making it a target for inclusion in the diet of farm animals. In addition, it is concluded that both species are studied for their sustainable potential as well as for offering greater economic and nutritional viability when compared to ingredients present in production animal feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant essential oils are intricate blends of semi-volatile and volatile substances. They primarily consist of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes; however, very trace amounts of diterpenes, triterpenes, and tetraterpenes are also present. In view of environmental concerns, highly aromatic essential oils, exhibit a variety of bioactivities against the targeted species as a novel pest control alternative to synthetic insecticides. As a result, the study aims to evaluate the impact of essential oils (EO) extracted from various plant species: Azadirachta indica, Citrus limon, Eucalyptus globulus, Laurus nobilis, Mentha piperita , and Ocimum tenuiflorum. Gas chromatography and Mass spectrometry (GC–MS) were used to determine the chemical components of these essential oils. Furthermore, the extracted oils were subjected to individual and combination formulations of bio-insecticides, which were assessed on houseflies and cockroaches in comparison to a blank control and the positive control dichlorvos (dimethyl 2, 2-dichlorovinyl phosphate). The findings showed that the maximum essential oil yields from the leaves of A. indica, E. globulus , and O. tenuiflorum were 11.38, 9.64 and 10.41 %, respectively. Compared to DDVP, which killed all insects within the 12-hour period, the combined form of leaf essential oils at 100 % concentration proved to be more effective in controlling insect mortality. It accounted for 98 % of the deaths in houseflies and 76.4 % of the deaths in cockroaches, according to the contact toxicity evaluation. The active insecticidal components in the formulation include eucalyptol, undecane, tetradecane, estragole, pentadecane, and caryophyllene. [Display omitted] • Herbal essential oils extracted from six medicinal plants and showed acute toxicity on housefly and cockroach. • The essential oil formulation showed promising biological activities contact toxicity on housefly and cockroach. • GC–MS analysis predict eucalyptol, undecane, tetradecane, estragole, pentadecane, and caryophyllene highest percentage. • The 100 % herbal insecticidal product was developed and commercialised with cost effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past 2 decades, the potential of insects as food and feed has been recognized globally. Insects as feed ingredients can improve sustainability because of their lower greenhouse gas emissions and their potential to transform organic wastes into high-quality feed rich in nutrients. However, currently, the practical use of insects as food or feed is limited by the high costs of insect production. A great deal of effort is required to improve the rearing technology necessary to establish the principles of insect farming. Several insect species have become industrialized using existing methods of production. The most common industrialized insect species intended as feed and food include the yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae); the house cricket, Acheta domesticus L. (Orthoptera: Gryllidae); the black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens L. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae); and the house fly, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae). This review focuses on describing the existing rearing methods for these 4 insect species, which may provide a basis for future research to enhance insect production capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have investigated the potential of using farmed insects in animal feeds; however, little research has been done using wild-caught insects for this purpose. Concerns about inadequate quantities collected, environmental impacts, and the spread of pathogens contribute to the preferred utilization of farmed insects. Nevertheless, by harvesting certain pest species from intensified agricultural operations, producers could provide their animals with affordable and sustainable protein sources while also reducing pest populations. This study explores the possibility of collecting large quantities of pest flies from livestock operations and analyzes the flies' nutritional content, potential pathogen load, and various disinfection methods. Using a newly designed mass collection-trapping device, we collected 5 kg of biomass over 13 wk, primarily house flies, from a poultry facility. While a substantial number of pests were removed from the environment, there was no reduction in the fly population. Short-read sequencing was used to compare the bacterial communities carried by flies from differing source populations, and the bacterial species present in the fly samples varied based on farm type and collection time. Drying and milling the wild-caught flies as well as applying an additional heat treatment significantly reduced the number of culturable bacteria present in or on the flies, though their pathogenicity remains unknown. Importantly, these disinfection methods did not affect the nutritional value of the processed flies. Further research is necessary to fully assess the safety and viability of integrating wild-caught insects into livestock feed; however, these data show promising results in favor of such a system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Carotenoids are organic compounds with various important functions in animals. Most animals obtain their carotenoids only from their food. House flies are common pests with a worldwide distribution. Their larvae feed on organic matter that may vary substantially in its carotenoid composition. This study examines if the carotenoid composition in the body of adult house flies is related to the composition in the larval feed. House fly larvae were reared on diets that differed in carotenoid composition. HPLC analysis of the emerging adult flies indicates that the carotenoid composition in adult house flies was similar, but not identical, to the composition in the larval feed. These results suggest that carotenoid composition in adult flies may be used to estimate the composition in their natal habitat and therefore may be used to identify potential sources of house fly infestations. Also, the feed of house fly larvae, used for animal feed, should be carefully considered. Carotenoids are common and diverse organic compounds with various functional roles in animals. Except for certain aphids, mites, and gall midges, all animals only acquire necessary carotenoids through their diet. The house fly (Musca domestica) is a cosmopolitan pest insect that populates diverse habitats. Its larvae feed on organic substrates that may vary in carotenoid composition according to their specific content. We hypothesized that the carotenoid composition in the adult house fly's body would reflect the carotenoid composition in the larval feed. House fly larvae were reared on diets that differed in carotenoid composition. HPLC analysis of the emerging adult flies indicate that the carotenoid composition of adult house flies is related, but not identical, to the carotenoid composition in its natal substrate. These findings may be developed to help identify potential sources of house fly infestations. Also, it is recommended that rearing substrates of house fly larvae, used for animal feed, should be carefully considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Houseflies (Musca domestica: Diptera) are serious medical and veterinary vectors of several human and animal pathogens. Ovicides reduce breeding housefly populations and the risk of housefly vector diseases. The natural ovicides of plant essential oils (EOs) and their main ingredients were suitable and sustainable options at this time against houseflies. This study evaluated the housefly ovicidal activities of four single-component formulations and two combination formulations of essential oils and their main constituents. The efficacy of each treatment was compared to that of α-cypermethrin (a synthetic insecticide). Two combinations: lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) EO + trans-anethole and star anise (Illicium verum) EO + geranial, were at least 1.1 times as effective in ovicidal activity as all single-component treatments and α-cypermethrin. They induced embryonic damage and mortality inside the activities of the eggs, disrupting the eggshell, hatching line, aeropyles, plastron, and micropyle. More significantly, the two combinations and all single-component formulations were safe for two non-target aquatic species: guppy (Poecilia reticulate: Poeciliidae) and molly (Poecilia latipinna: Poeciliidae), while α-cypermethrin was not safe for them. The two combinations could be developed into an effective and safe natural ovicide for reducing housefly populations and managing housefly vector diseases. This study attempted to evaluate the ovicidal activity of single-component formulations and combination formulations of lemongrass and star anise essential oils (EOs) and their main constituents against housefly eggs. The efficacies of the combinations were compared with those of single-component formulations and α-cypermethrin. Safety bioassays of all treatments and α-cypermethrin on non-target predators—guppy and molly—were conducted. Two combinations: 1% lemongrass EO + 1% trans-anethole and 1% star anise EO + 1% geranial, exhibited a strong ovicidal activity with an inhibition rate of 94.4 to 96.2%. They were 1.1 times as effective as α-cypermethrin. The two combinations also showed high synergistic activity compared to single-component formulations, with a high synergistic index and a high increased inhibition value of 37.4 to 57.7%. All EO treatments were benign for all non-target aquatic species with a high 50% lethal time (LT50) and safety index. In contrast, α-cypermethrin was highly toxic to them with a low LT50. The morphological abnormalities observed in housefly eggs at death were those such as the shrivelling of the eggs, aberrations and damage to the eggshells, hatching lines, aeropyles, plastron, and micropyle. The potential of these two combinations as a cypermethrin replacement is compelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study involves the research and development of a cosmetic formulation for a repellent lotion against Musca domestica using Lavandula angustifolia Mill (lavender extract) and eucalyptus oil grown in Turkey.The active ingredients in the formulation were melted at 70°C and subsequently homogenized using a mixing technique. The oil phase was maintained at 70°C, and Arlacel 83 was introduced initially, followed by lavender and eucalyptus oil at varying concentrations. The repellent lotion was partially incorporated into the water phase and brought to the same temperature. The lotion formulation was cooled by mixing. Total bacterial and fungal counts were reported as colony-forming units per ml.Considering the viscosity values, the RL-F-2, RL-F-5, and RL-F-8 formulations were identified as the most suitable for use as a lotion. The flow properties of RL-F-2 formulation, which has the best of these three formulations, were analyzed. The RF-L-2 optimum repellent lotion formulation resulted in showing shear thickening according to the Ostwald-de Waele and exhibited pseudoplastic flow. This study revealed that plant-based products can be developed for repellent activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crops contamination with aflatoxins (AFs) and zearalenone (ZEA) threaten human and animal health; these mycotoxins are produced by several species of Aspergillus and Fusarium. The objective was to evaluate under field conditions the influence of the wet season on the dissemination of AF- and ZEA-producing fungi via houseflies collected from dairy farms. Ten dairy farms distributed in the semi-arid Central Mexican Plateau were selected. Flies were collected in wet and dry seasons at seven points on each farm using entomological traps. Fungi were isolated from fly carcasses via direct seeding with serial dilutions and wet chamber methods. The production of AFs and ZEA from pure isolates was quantified using indirect competitive ELISA. A total of 693 Aspergillus spp. and 1274 Fusarium spp. isolates were obtained, of which 58.6% produced AFs and 50.0% produced ZEA (491 ± 122; 2521 ± 1295 µg/kg). Houseflies and both fungal genera were invariably present, but compared to the dry season, there was a higher abundance of flies as well as AF- and ZEA-producing fungi in the wet season (p < 0.001; 45.3/231 flies/trap; 8.6/29.6% contaminated flies). These results suggest that rainy-weather conditions on dairy farms increase the spread of AF- and ZEA-producing Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp. through houseflies and the incorporation of their mycotoxins into the food chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Houseflies serve as vectors of diseases in animals and humans. Chemical pesticides are a practical way of eliminating insects; however, resistance to insecticides has been reported. This study aims to evaluate the adulticidal efficacy of cypermethrin, tetramethrin, and piperonyl butoxide in housefly. Methods: Adult flies were cultured within net enclosures using completely randomized design with four replications each treatment. Treatment A was water and served as the negative control, treatment B was cypermethrin + tetramethrin + piperonyl butoxide 32% EC and served as the positive control, and treatment C was cypermethrin + tetramethrin + piperonyl butoxide 48% EC. The number of dead houseflies were counted 15, 30, 60, and 120 minutes post-application of treatments. The results were analyzed through analysis of variance (P≤0.05) followed by Tukey 's HSD (honestly significant difference). Results and Discussion: The values for the cumulative mean and percentage of killed houseflies were all significantly different from each other, with treatment C showing the highest values, followed by treatment B, then treatment A. The maximum adulticidal effect of treatment C was apparent within 15 minutes post-application, while the maximum adulticidal effect of treatment B was observed within 30 minutes after application. Conclusion: Results suggest that treatment C was a more effective adulticidal than other groups. Using cypermethrin + tetramethrin + piperonyl butoxide 48% EC can be the solution to the problem, but it should be noted that future resistance may occur. Increased concentrations may also imply environmental, human, and animal health hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flies are acknowledged as vectors of diseases transmitted through mechanical means and represent a significant risk to human health. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of enteropathogens carried by flies in Pudong New Area to inform strategies for preventing and controlling flies. Methods: Samples were collected from various locations in the area using cage trapping techniques between April and November 2021, encompassing various habitats such as parks, residential areas, restaurants, and farmers' markets. The main fly species were identified using cryomicrography and taxonomic enumeration, with 20 samples per tube collected from different habitats. Twenty-five enteropathogens were screened using GI_Trial v3 TaqManTM microbial arrays. Results: A total of 3,875 flies were collected from 6,400 placements, resulting in an average fly density of 0.61 flies per cage. M. domestica were the most common species at 39.85%, followed by L. sericata at 16.57% and B. peregrina at 13.14%. Out of 189 samples, 93 tested positive for enteropathogens, with nine different pathogens being found. 12.70% of samples exclusively had parasites, a higher percentage than those with only bacteria or viruses. The study found that M. domestica had fewer enteropathogens than L. sericata and B. peregrina, which primarily harbored B. hominis instead of bacteria and viruses such as E. coli, Astrovirus, and Sapovirus. During spring testing, all three fly species exhibited low rates of detecting enteropathogens. M. domestica were found in residential areas with the highest number of pathogen species, totaling six. In contrast, L. sericata and B. peregrina were identified in farmers' markets with the highest number of pathogen species, totaling six and seven, respectively. Conclusions: Flies have the potential to serve as vectors for the transmission of enteropathogens, thereby posing a substantial risk to public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the model of houseflies with discrete delay, which is examined both theoretically and numerically. The solution of the delayed system is bounded and positive. The delay is selected as the bifurcation parameter. Stability analysis, local and global Hopf bifurcation are given in theoretical aspect. Through computer simulations, various dynamic behaviors, such as supercritical Hopf bifurcation, are detected. The theoretical analysis and numerical observations in this research are significant contributions to the biomathematics research area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Enzymes of the detoxification system are known to play a crucial role in insecticide resistance in insects. The role of P450 monooxygenases in providing resistance to chlorfenapyr is ambiguous and of interest due to possible negative cross-resistance to pyrethroids and other insecticides, the resistance to which is ensured by increased activity of these enzymes. This study aimed to perform a biochemical and molecular evaluation of P450 monooxygenases in susceptible and chlorfenapyr-resistant strains of Musca domestica L. depending on sex. The chlorfenapyr-resistant strain of M. domestica L. did not differ from the susceptible strain in terms of the pattern of overall P450-monooxygenase activity: the larvae of both strains had lower enzymatic activity than the adults. However, the development of resistance to chlorfenapyr in house flies was accompanied by an increase in P450-monooxygenase activity without changes in CYP6D1 expression. PCR-RFLP analysis revealed a previously undescribed mutation in the promoter region of the CYP6D1 gene of M. domestica, the effect of which on the gene expression level was not detected. The house fly Musca domestica L. is one of the most common insects of veterinary and medical importance worldwide; its ability to develop resistance to a large number of insecticides is well known. Many studies support the involvement of cytochrome P-450-dependent monooxygenases (P450) in the development of resistance to pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, carbamates, and organophosphates among insects. In this paper, the monooxygenase activity and expression level of CYP6D1 were studied for the first time in a chlorfenapyr-resistant strain of house fly. Our studies demonstrated that P450 activity in adults of the susceptible strain (Lab TY) and chlorfenapyr-resistant strain (ChlA) was 1.56–4.05-fold higher than that in larvae. In females of the Lab TY and ChlA strains, this activity was 1.53- and 1.57-fold higher, respectively (p < 0.05), than that in males, and in contrast, the expression level of CYP6D1 was 21- and 8-fold lower, respectively. The monooxygenase activity did not vary between larvae of the susceptible strain Lab TY and the chlorfenapyr-resistant strain ChlA. Activity in females and males of the ChlA strain exceeded that in the Lab TY strain specimens by 1.54 (p = 0.08) and 1.83 (p < 0.05) times, respectively, with the same level of CYP6D1 expression. PCR-RFLP analysis revealed a previously undescribed mutation in the promoter region of the CYP6D1 gene in adults of the Lab TY and ChlA strains, and it did not affect the gene expression level. The obtained results show that the development of resistance to chlorfenapyr in M. domestica is accompanied by an increase in P450-monooxygenase activity without changes in CYP6D1 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The house fly is a pest that not only causes economic losses but also threatens human health, posing nuisance problems and mechanically transmitting pathogens that cause diseases. Although the use of pesticides has provided efficient control, resistance development has been hindering the success of traditional pesticides. In this study, we evaluated 17 essential oil components (EOCs) for their toxicity and repellency against the strains of resistant and susceptible house flies. Thymol, (+)-pulegone, eugenol, and carvacrol exhibited high toxicity to house flies with little to no resistance to the tested strains. Seven of the EOCs exhibited repellent activity towards house flies at certain concentrations. Two EOCs were attractive to house flies and can potentially serve as attractants for traps. Thymol could potentially be used as a lure and insecticide as it exhibits high toxicity and is attractive to house flies. Our screening of a wide range of EOCs provides a deeper understanding of the potential of using EOCs not only as pesticides but also as trap attractants, encouraging further investigations in house fly management using those EOCs. The house fly is a significant pest in agriculture and human health that is increasingly difficult to manage due to multiple limitations including resistance development. To explore alternative pesticides, the topical toxicity and repellency profiles of 17 essential oil components (EOCs) were evaluated against a resistant and a susceptible strain of house fly, Musca domestica L., using topical application and Y-tube olfactometers, respectively. Six of the most toxic EOCs based on the LD50 were further investigated against a susceptible strain of house fly. Thymol, (+)-pulegone, eugenol, and carvacrol were always the top four most toxic chemicals tested against the resistant house fly strain. Little to no resistance was observed to the top six EOCs based on the comparison of the results between resistant and susceptible house fly strains. P-Cymene, citronellic acid, R-(+)-limonene, linalool, γ-terpinene, estragole, and eugenol were repellent to adult house flies at certain concentrations while (-)-carvone and thymol were attractive to adult house flies. This screening of a wide variety of individual EOCs provides a stronger foundation of information for further research. This should encourage further investigation into the topical toxicity and repellency in field studies, which will provide more insight into the performance of biopesticides for house fly management and potential commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]