Influence of Monensin and Diflubenzuron on the Control of Immature Horn Fly and House Fly and Chemical Composition of Cattle Feces

Twelve Angus x Hereford crossbred heifers were used in a completely randomized design to evaluate the effects of monensin and diflubenzuron feed additives on horn fly (Haematobia irritans) (L.) and house fly (Musca domestica) (L.) immature development. Heifers were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups; 1) monensin fed at label rate, 2) diflubenzuron fed at label rate, 3) monensin and diflubenzuron fed at label rates together, and 4) nonsupplemented control. All treatments were administered from SD 0 to 28, followed by a 16-d wash-out period for a total study duration of 45 d and assayed to assess adult fly emergence, as well as fecal pH and fecal bacterial and total protein. A treatment x day interaction (P< 0.01) was observed for adult fly emergence. Fly emergence was not affected (P> 0.05) by monensin, but was reduced during the 28 d treatment period when diflubenzuron was present (P = 0.01). Fecal pH, fecal bacterial protein, and total protein were not affected by any of the treatments (P> 0.13). It is concluded that diflubenzuron is effective against both horn and house fly development regardless of the presence of monensin. Key words: diflubenzuron, Haematobia irritans, monensin, Musca domestica