Gastric antrum

Gasterophilus intestinalis is a species of fly in the family Gasterophilidae, commonly known as the horse stomach bot fly. This species is known for its parasitic relationship with equine species, particularly horses. The adult flies do not feed, but the larvae are internal parasites in the digestive system of horses.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Gasterophilus intestinalis is complex and involves several stages. The adult female fly lays her eggs on the hairs of the horse's forelegs and shoulders. The eggs are stimulated to hatch by the horse's licking or biting at the site. The larvae then enter the horse's mouth and burrow into the tongue or gums, where they remain for about a month. They then pass into the horse's stomach and attach themselves to the stomach lining. After several months, they pass out of the horse with the feces and pupate in the soil to emerge as adult flies.

Impact on Host

The presence of Gasterophilus intestinalis larvae can cause a variety of health problems for the host horse. These can range from mild irritation and discomfort to serious digestive disorders such as gastritis, ulceration of the stomach lining, and in severe cases, peritonitis or colic.

Control and Prevention

Control of Gasterophilus intestinalis involves both direct treatment of infested horses and management practices to reduce the fly population. Treatment usually involves the use of anthelmintic drugs to kill the larvae. Management practices can include regular removal of horse feces from pastures and stables, and the use of fly repellents.

See Also

• Gasterophilidae
• Parasitic flies of domestic animals
• Equine parasitic diseases