Which of the following pests is known for having larvae that thrive in animal waste?

Stable flies are specifically adapted to breeding in areas where animal waste is present, making them well-known pests in environments such as farms and stables. The larvae of stable flies develop in decaying organic matter, particularly in manure, where they find the necessary nutrients for growth. This breeding habit allows stable flies to proliferate in conditions where livestock are kept, leading to infestations that can be a significant nuisance and cause discomfort to animals.

In contrast, while other pests such as fungus gnats and drain flies may also have associations with damp organic materials, they do not specifically thrive in animal waste like stable flies do. Horse flies, although they are blood-feeders and can be found near animals, do not rely on animal waste for their larvae development and are more associated with laying eggs in moist areas near water sources. Thus, the focus on stable flies in this context is due to their direct relationship with animal waste as a breeding ground for their larvae.