New App a shot in the arm for blackfly control along Orange River

Abstract

River During the last outbreak along the Lower Orange River in 2011, blackfly caused losses of livestock estimated at some R300 million. Lambs were particularly affected, many having been trampled to death by sheep huddling together to protect themselves from the biting insects, or prevented by their mothers from suckling. Like mosquitoes, it is only the female blackfly that bites as she needs a blood meal for egg development, and any soft and exposed skin on teats, eyes, ears and lips comes under attack. The resulting pain, together with the constant annoyance of circulating flies, inhibits feeding and mating, leading to loss of condition and reduced lambing. Secondary infection of the wounds or allergic reactions sometimes even cause the death of the animal. The economic impact of blackfly outbreaks is not limited to livestock farming though. The irrigated agriculture and tourism sectors are also affected through lost productivity of farmworkers and visitors avoiding outdoor activities.

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