Rat-tailed Maggot

Stagnant water, polluted water sources, lagoons, and organic-rich environments such as sewage or manure runoff.

Detritivore, feeding on decaying organic matter and microbes found in stagnant liquid environments.

Uses its long, telescopic tail to breathe atmospheric air while submerged in low-oxygen water. They eventually migrate to drier soil to pupate.

Benefits: Adults are beneficial pollinators (Hoverflies). Risks: Can cause accidental 'accidental myiasis' if ingested through contaminated water or food, leading to intestinal distress.