Joseph W. Diclaro

Head Lice

R. W. Baldwin, P. G. Koehler, J. W. Diclaro II, and F. M. Oi

Stinging or Venomous Insects and Related Pests

P. G. Koehler and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of stinging or venomous insects and related pests in Florida. It categorizes venoms into four types: vesicating, neurotoxic, cytolytic/hemolytic, and hemorrhagic. The article emphasizes the importance of allergic reactions, which are often more severe than the toxic effects. It outlines immediate actions to take following stings or bites and offers prevention tips. Additionally, it describes common venomous arthropods, including bees, wasps, scorpions, spiders, fire ants, velvet ants, wheel bugs, blister beetles, and stinging caterpillars, along with control measures for each. Publication date: October 1994.

Biting Flies

J. B. Pitzer, P. G. Koehler and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of various biting flies in Florida, including no-see’ums, black flies, stable flies, horse flies, and deer flies. It details their life cycles, habitats, and the impact of their bites on humans and animals. The document also discusses control measures, such as environmental management, protective clothing, and the use of repellents and insecticides, to mitigate the nuisance and health risks posed by these pests. Publication date: April 1991

Body Lice and Pubic Lice

C. W. Scherer, P. G. Koehler, and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of body lice and pubic lice, detailing their biology, transmission, symptoms, and treatment. Body lice, which can transmit diseases like typhus, are less common in the U.S., while pubic lice are a significant nuisance. Both types of lice are blood-sucking insects that cause itching and irritation. Treatment involves washing clothing and bedding in hot water and using medicated shampoos or creams. The document emphasizes the importance of hygiene and alerting sexual partners in cases of pubic lice infestation. 

Black Soldier Fly Hermetia illucens Linnaeus (Insecta: Diptera: Stratiomyidae)

Joseph W. Diclaro II and Phillip E. Kaufman

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences.

Fleas

P. G. Koehler, R. M. Pereira, and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of fleas, including their biology, life cycle, and the health issues they cause. Fleas are small, blood-sucking insects that can infest pets and homes, causing itching and irritation. The document details the flea’s life stages, from eggs to adults, and emphasizes the importance of treating both pets and their environments to control infestations. It also discusses various treatment methods, including on-animal treatments and premise treatments, to effectively manage and prevent flea problems. Date first printed July 1993.

Nuisance Nonbiting Flies Such as Filth-Breeding Flies

P. G. Koehler and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of filth-breeding flies, including house flies, greenbottle flies, bluebottle flies, secondary screwworm flies, vinegar flies, flesh flies, moth flies, eye gnats, humpbacked flies, and soldier flies. It details their biology, life cycles, and the diseases they can transmit. The document emphasizes the importance of hygiene and proper waste management to control infestations. It also discusses various control methods, including sanitation, exclusion, and the use of insecticides. Publication date: June 1991.