Identification and Infestation Level of Hippobosca sp. in Cattle at a Beef Fattening Farm in Bekasi Regency

Siagian, Tetty Barunawati

Jurnal Ilmiah Ilmu-Ilmu Peternakan
Vol 29 No 2 (2026): November 2026

Background: Hippobosca sp. is a hematophagous ectoparasitic fly that infests cattle and may adversely affect animal health and productivity through blood-feeding activity. In addition, this fly has been reported as a potential mechanical vector of several infectious pathogens. Information regarding the occurrence and infestation level of Hippobosca sp. in beef cattle farms in Indonesia remains limited, highlighting the need for surveillance to support effective ectoparasite control strategies. Purpose: This study aimed to identify the occurrence of Hippobosca sp. and determine its infestation level in cattle at a beef fattening farm in Bekasi Regency, Indonesia. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted in June 2026 involving 100 beef cattle. Each animal underwent a direct visual examination of the entire body surface to detect the presence of ectoparasitic flies. Collected specimens were identified based on their morphological characteristics through direct field observation. The data were analyzed descriptively by calculating the prevalence and infestation intensity of Hippobosca sp. Results: Hippobosca sp. infestation was detected in one out of 100 examined cattle, with a total of two flies collected from the positive animal. The prevalence of infestation was 1%, while the infestation intensity was 2 flies per positive host, indicating a light level of infestation. The low prevalence and intensity observed in this study were likely associated with good farm management and sanitation practices that reduced the opportunity for ectoparasite transmission. Conclusion: The occurrence of Hippobosca sp. in the investigated beef fattening farm was low, indicating a light infestation level. Nevertheless, the detection of this ectoparasite demonstrates the potential risk of its introduction through cattle movement. Routine ectoparasite surveillance, regular health inspections, and strict biosecurity measures, particularly during the introduction of newly arrived cattle, are recommended to minimize the risk of infestation and prevent the spread of ectoparasites in beef cattle production systems.