The transmission of myxomatosis by Simulium melatum Wharton (Diptera: Simuliidae)

Abstract

An experiment is described which shows that Simulium melatum Wharton was a vector of myxomatosis in part of the area covered by the 1950-51 epidemic in south-eastern Australia. The peculiar symptoms associated with myxomatosis transmitted by this insect are described, and possible reasons for the development of these symptoms are suggested. An opinion is expressed concerning the relative importance of simuliid flies in the natural transmission of myxomatosis.