Overview of the Vectors and Their Role in Transmission of African Animal Trypanosomiasis

Abstract

African animal trypanosomiasis (AAT) is a major constraint to livestock productivity, particularly in cattle and in camels. This chapter covers some general aspects of the arthropod vectors of animal trypanosomiasis, the tsetse flies Glossina spp., and to a lesser extent the biting flies. This chapter covers the classification, morphology, basic biology, and the eco-distribution of tsetse flies. The role of tsetse flies in disease epidemiology has also been reviewed. The elementary biology of these vectors is quite well known and elucidated. However, with advances in molecular and other biological techniques, new insights related to tsetse biology have been obtained. This chapter will revisit these basics and include some updated information emanating from research done in the recent past. The final part of the chapter is devoted to a brief discussion on biting flies, the vectors of T. evansi, which causes camel trypanosomiasis.