Rat-tailed maggot (Larva of the Drone Fly)

Found in stagnant water, sewages, lagoons, or environments rich in decaying organic matter with low oxygen levels.

They feed on decaying organic matter (detritus), bacteria, and microbes found in polluted or stagnant water.

The larva uses a long, telescopic tail-like appendage to breathe atmospheric air while submerged in water. This allows it to survive in highly anaerobic (low oxygen) environments where other larvae cannot.

Benefits: Adults are excellent pollinators. Risks: If accidentally ingested through contaminated water, they can cause accidental intestinal myiasis in humans, leading to gastrointestinal distress.