Zur Kenntnis der Dasselfliege Oestromyia leporina (Pallas, 1778), eines Parasiten der Feldmaus (Microtus arvalis Pallas) (Diptera: Hypodermatidae).

Abstract

Only a few finds of the hypoderma Oestromyia leporina have been reported from Central Europe. When it was identified one the Vogelsberg in Hesse in 1965, this place was systematically searched for larvae and imagos in 1966 and 1967. This species parasitizes the field mouse Microtus arvalis. By means of various trapping methods quite a number of host animals were caught alive and examined for parasites. 12 parasitized mice with a total of 25 Oestromyia larvae were found. The distribution of these larvae in the integument of the host is discussed in connection with the oviposition of the female, and their orientation and the way in which they leave their prey are described. Other observations are made on the pupation, the quiescence in the puparium and the date of the emergence of the imago. Two reared males were used for studying the flying activity. The discussion of the effect of the parasitization on the host in followed by remarks on the range of hosts and the geographical distribution. The finds in Central Europe are regarded as remnants in this area. It is not congruent with the distribution is considered, a change of hosts in Europe can be assumed as probable, having taken place presumably in the beginning of the Holocene.