Cordylobia rodhaini

Cordylobia rodhaini

Cordylobia rodhaini larva

Cordylobia rodhaini, commonly known as the tumbu fly, is a species of fly belonging to the family Calliphoridae. It is native to certain regions of Africa, including Central and East Africa. The tumbu fly is known for its parasitic behavior, as its larvae infest the skin of mammals, including humans and domestic animals. This article will provide an overview of the tumbu fly, its life cycle, and the impact it has on its hosts.

Description and Life Cycle

The adult tumbu fly is a medium-sized fly, measuring approximately 8-12 millimeters in length. It has a dark brown or black body with distinctive yellow markings on its abdomen. The female tumbu fly lays her eggs on damp soil or clothing, typically in areas frequented by mammals. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the skin of a suitable host, where they develop and feed on the host's tissue.

The larvae of Cordylobia rodhaini are commonly referred to as tumbu maggots. Once inside the host's skin, the maggots create a boil-like lesion known as a myiasis. This lesion serves as a protective environment for the larvae to complete their development. The larvae grow rapidly, feeding on the host's tissue for approximately 8-12 days. After this period, they leave the host's body and pupate in the soil, where they undergo metamorphosis and eventually emerge as adult flies.

Hosts and Distribution

The tumbu fly larvae infest a wide range of mammalian hosts, including humans, dogs, cats, and livestock such as cattle and goats. The infestation of humans is more common in rural areas where hygiene practices may be limited. The distribution of Cordylobia rodhaini is primarily restricted to certain regions of Africa, including countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Symptoms and Treatment

The presence of tumbu fly larvae in the skin can cause various symptoms in the host. Initially, the affected area may experience itching and redness. As the larvae grow and feed on the host's tissue, the symptoms can progress to severe pain, inflammation, and the formation of a visible boil-like lesion. If left untreated, secondary bacterial infections may occur.

The treatment of tumbu fly infestation involves the removal of the larvae from the host's skin. This can be done by applying petroleum jelly or adhesive tape to the lesion, which suffocates the larvae and allows for their easy removal. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to extract the larvae. Additionally, proper wound care and antibiotic treatment may be necessary to prevent secondary infections.

Prevention and Control

Preventing tumbu fly infestation primarily involves maintaining good personal hygiene and cleanliness. It is important to regularly wash and dry clothing, especially those worn in areas where the tumbu fly is prevalent. Additionally, avoiding contact with infested soil and using insect repellents can help reduce the risk of infestation.

In areas where tumbu fly infestation is common, community-based interventions can be implemented. These may include public health education campaigns, improved sanitation practices, and the use of insecticides to target the adult flies and prevent egg-laying.

See Also

• Myiasis
• Calliphoridae
• Parasitism