Fly Larva (Maggot)

Found globally in decaying organic matter, trash, soiled fabrics, or moist environments containing protein sources.

Decaying plant or animal matter, liquefied organic substances, and bacteria found in moist environments.

Photophobic (light-avoiding), typically burrowing into food sources; moves using a hook-like mouthpart and muscular contractions.

Risks: Can spread bacteria (Salmonella, E. coli) to humans if they contaminate food. Benefits: Essential decomposers in the ecosystem and used in forensic entomology to determine time of death.