Lesser house fly

The females lay their eggs in moist organic substrates (particularly poultry droppings).

Hatching occurs in 24 to 4 hours depending on the temperature. The larvae develop in 8 to 10 days until the pupation phase which lasts 8 to 12 days.

Fannia canicularis live an average of 14 days. All stages of the fly can diapause during the winter. In the spring or when the temperature is sufficient, their cycle resumes.

Egg: about 0.9 mm, elongated shape, transparent white laid on the food substrate.

Larva: 1st and 2nd instar measure 1.5 to 3 mm and are white. The 3rd instar browns and measures up to 7 mm. The larva and pupa of the species is characterized by the presence of many setae (hairs).

Pupa: resembles darker and less mobile 3rd instar larvae.

Adult: males have large eyes that almost touch at the top of the head, females have smaller eyes that are less close together. The small house fly can be distinguished from the house fly: (1) its size is smaller, about 2/3 of its length (4 to 7 mm); (2) it has only 3 brown-black bands on the thorax, more visible on females; (3) the 4th longitudinal vein of the wings is straight and (4) the abdomen is dull black, the male has yellowish spots on the back and sides, the females only on the back.

Adults are good fliers and can move from farm to farm. These adults are attracted by the smells of manure contained in buildings.

The larvae develop in these manures.

Fannia canicularis often develops in poultry farms (laying hens) but also in dairy farms.

The life cycle is accelerated with warm temperature.