Fly Maggot (Larva)
Scientific Name: Diptera (Order)
Order & Family: Order: Diptera, Families vary (e.g., Calliphoridae, Muscidae)
Size: 3 mm to 20 mm depending on species and instar stage
Natural Habitat
Found in decaying organic matter such as garbage, rotting food, carrion, and feces.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on decaying organic material, rotting meat, fermenting vegetables, or waste.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae hatch from eggs laid by adult flies and feed voraciously to build energy for pupation. They are photophobic (avoid light) and seek moist environments.
Risks & Benefits
They are essential decomposers in nature but are considered pests in homes due to hygiene risks; they can transmit bacteria (Salmonella, E. coli) and cause myiasis in rare cases.
Identified on: 2/10/2026