Streblinae

Streblinae is a subfamily of parasitic flies that belong to the family Hippoboscidae, commonly known as louse flies or keds. Members of this group are obligate ectoparasites that primarily feed on the blood of bats and, occasionally, other mammals. The subfamily is distinguished by its reduced wing structure, short antennae, and robust, spiny bodies that facilitate attachment to the fur or skin of hosts. Many species exhibit a highly adapted morphology for life on mammals, with hind legs equipped for gripping and spiracle arrangements modified for breathing in close contact with a host.

Taxonomically, the Streblinae are divided into several genera, including *Streblus*, *Goniozus*, and *Leesia*. These genera differ in the shape of the genitalia and the pattern of setae across the thorax and abdomen, features used by dipterologists to differentiate species. Host specificity is common; some Streblinae species parasitize only a single bat species, while others attack a broader range of hosts within the same roost.

The life cycle of Streblinae parallels that of other Hippoboscidae. Eggs are laid in the roosting environment, and upon hatching, the first larval stage undergoes at least one molt before becoming a phoretic pre-pupa. The pre-pupa attaches to a host, where it develops into an adult fly. Adult Streblinae feed on hemolymph during brief feeding events, often leaving hosts with mild irritation. Although they can serve as mechanical vectors for pathogens such as *Bartonella* and *Pseudogymnoascus destructans*, their epidemiological impact on bat populations remains poorly understood.

Streblinae are of interest to ecologists and disease researchers because they occupy a unique niche as obligate bat parasites. Their distribution is largely tropical and subtropical, with the greatest diversity found in Central and South America, but species are present on all continents that support bat biodiversity. Continued taxonomic and ecological studies are needed to clarify species boundaries, host associations, and the role of these flies in the transmission of zoonotic agents.