Order Diptera

Phorid flies, (family Phoridae) also known as humpbacked flies, are small and very much resemble fruit flies in appearance, however the Phorid fly lacks the red eye colour that is the classic trademark of the Fruit fly (Tephritidae) and Vinegar Fly (Drosophila melanigaster).

Phorid flies are up to 4mm in length, fitting into the “small” category of flies.

Color: Black through to tan brown with black eyes; small head; a severely arched (humpbacked) thorax when viewed from the side. Phorid flies are found throughout the world.

Behaviour

Viewed with the naked eye, the most recognisable and a significant characteristic is their tendency to run rapidly across surfaces instead of immediately flying when disturbed. All other species of flies will immediately take flight.
Phorid flies are commonly found in homes and commercial facilities where food is prepared and served. They are also significantly important pests in food storage areas and hospitals. Because these flies frequent unsanitary and filthy conditions, they are a potential health concern when they occur in food facilities and hospitals. The main concern is their ability to spread disease-causing bacteria onto food products.

There have been reports of Phorid fly larvae have been discovered in the open wounds of patients in nursing homes and hospitals.

Several species have the common name of the coffin fly, because they breed in human corpses, and can even continue their life cycle within buried coffins. For this reason they

are important in forensic entomology in determining time of death.

(more…)

Order Acarina,

The Paralysis tick Ixodes holocyclus, is by far the most dangerous tick where domestic pets and humans are concerned.

This tick can cause paralysis in a variety of forms but usually symptoms begin with weakness of the hindquarters that progresses to total paralysis of all four legs. Other typical early signs include an altered bark or meow and vomiting. By the time the chest muscles and muscles of the throat have become affected, the dog or cat will be in very serious trouble.

The Paralysis tick is known generally, to be only found along the eastern coast of Australia, with evidence that they are now in parts of Western Australia. It can also be found inland if suitable habitats are on offer.

Ticks need humidity and mild weather to develop and will not survive and breed in cold climates. In northern parts of Australia, paralysis ticks may be found all year round, while in southern areas the season goes from spring through to autumn.

(more…)

Order Dermaptera

There are about 1800 different recorded species of Earwig throughout the world, and over 60 species in Australia.

They have short leathery wings, although weak flyers and the abdomen extends well past the wings, usually (but not always) ending with pincer type cerci.

Most are dark brown in colour and around 12 –14mm in length

There is no evidence that they harmful to humans or animals despite also being known as “pincer bugs”

Earwigs prefer to live in moist cool situations, although they are somewhat adventurous and will wander.

Not really considered pest, and in some circles are thought of as beneficial as they feed on other insect, however they are known to eat and damage the soft tissue of developing plants, as well as ripe fruit and garbage.

Do It Yourself Pest Control - Earwigs

1. Loosely rolled up newspaper located in the area they frequent will attract them into the loose folds. Manner of disposal is up to the catcher, although into a bucket of soapy water seems popular.
2. Earwigs are attracted to fish oil and vegetable oil. A small foil pie-dish half filled with oil sunk into the soil up to the rim will trap them successfully.
3. Similar to above using soapy water has also been used with some success.
4. Elimination of rotting vegetation will also remove their favoured habitat