Fly Larva (Maggot)

Scientific Name: Family Muscidae, Calliphoridae, or similar

Order & Family: Order: Diptera; Family: Varies (e.g., Muscidae, Calliphoridae)

Size: 3mm to 12mm depending on the species and growth stage.

Fly Larva (Maggot)

Natural Habitat

Moist environments rich in organic matter, such as decaying food, garbage, soil, or animal waste.

Diet & Feeding

Organic material, liquefying and absorbing nutrients from decaying vegetation, food scraps, or protein sources.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae undergo three growth stages (instars) before pupating into adult flies; they are typically photophobic (avoid light) and seek moisture.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include the spread of bacteria/pathogens to food surfaces and potential infestation of human food; benefits include the rapid decomposition of organic waste in ecosystems.

Identified on: 3/23/2026