Species composition, Agro-climatic and geographical features of horsefly (Diptera: Tabanidae) in Warangal district of central Telangana zone

Abstract

Telangana State is known for its rich heritage in biological diversity distributed in 9 agro climatic regions. Present study is based on seasonal diversity, species composition, zoogeographical aspects of horse flies fauna flies in Warangal district, Tabanids are true flies causing serious nuisance to livestock, and mechanically transmit several significant animal pathogens. A study was carried out From June 2023 to August 2025; a total number of 5626 flies were collected from five mandals of 16 villages of Warangal district in Telangana state, by using Nzi traps with bait of cow urine. More tabanids flies were captured during the wet 63.27% (3560/5626) compared to the dry season 36.72% (2066/5626). From each site at weekly intervals time period these Tabanids were collected with the help Nzi traps method and Seeping net and these flies were identified by a binocular stereomicroscope by using morphological identification keys. The results of this study stated that, the major Tabanids were found in marsh areas, ponds and forest area. Climatic interference and urbanization of city are also affecting the diversity and tabanids species. This study indicates the abundance of tabanid fauna in the Warangal district of Central Telangana zone and clearly establishes that diversity of these flies and regional climatic interferences.