Abstract

NUNEZ-ROSAS, Laura E.; RAMIREZ-GARCIA, Enrique; LARA, Carlos  and  ARIZMENDI, Ma. del Coro. Observation of parasitism by flies (Philornis bellus) in three hummingbird species from Western Mexico. Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2018, vol.89, n.3, pp.847-853. ISSN 2007-8706.  https://doi.org/10.22201/ib.20078706e.2018.3.2383.

Both biotic and abiotic factors have been highlighted as negative for nesting success in birds, including predation, natural phenomena and emerging diseases. However, birds are also susceptible to endo- and ectoparasites. Diptera are the most common parasites, being families as Calliphoridae, Muscidae and Piophilidae the more reported as bird parasites. The genus Philornis (Muscidae) is closely related to birds, causing a negative impact on nestlings and their development. In hummingbirds the presence of Philornis has been reported in nestlings of Glaucis hirsuta, Thalurania glaucopis and Eupetomena macroura. In this study, we recorded the presence of Philornis bellus in nestlings of Amazilia rutila, Cynanthus latirostris, and Chlorostilbon auriceps in a tropical dry forest. Cynanthus latirostris presented the highest larvae number and A. rutila the lowest. Although it has been affirmed that more than 7 larvae are lethal for birds, it is necessary to conduct experimental studies and to consider a systematic monitoring of nests to determine the population-level effects of these parasites.

Keywords : Philornis; Parasitism; Hummingbirds; Tropical dry forest.

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