Abstract

Background:
Flies are important vectors transmitting various pathogens in livestock systems. Effective, economical, and environmentally sustainable fly control strategies are needed, particularly in semi-extensive cattle farming systems.

Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of three dome trap designs compared with the standard Nzi trap in different ecological zones.

Methods:
Field experiments were conducted in three ecological zones of Timor Island, Indonesia (coastal, lowland, and highland) in May 2023. Four trap types (Dome 1, Dome 2, Dome 3, and Nzi) were deployed near cattle, and fly collections were performed at 2-hour intervals. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s HSD test.

Results:
A total of 8,538 flies representing eight species were collected, dominated by Musca domestica (68.39%). The coastal zone had the highest abundance. Dome 3 showed the highest capture numerically; however, no significant differences were observed among trap types (p = 0.053). Fly activity peaked at mid-morning and decreased in the afternoon. Environmental factors such as elevation, temperature, and humidity influenced fly abundance.

Conclusion:
Although Dome 3 showed higher numerical performance, all trap types demonstrated comparable effectiveness. These findings provide baseline data for improving fly monitoring and control strategies in semi-extensive livestock systems.

Key words: Diptera; Dome trap; Fly monitoring vector control; Nzi trap; Semi-extensive grazing.