
Community identification
Fly Larva (Maggot)
Calliphoridae / Muscidae (various species)
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera; Families: Muscidae, Calliphoridae, or similar
- Size
- 3mm to 12mm depending on the stage of development
Natural Habitat
Found in decaying organic matter, garbage, animal waste, or damp areas with food sources
Diet & Feeding
Scavengers that feed on decaying meat, organic waste, rotting vegetables, or feces
Behavior Patterns
Larvae hatch from eggs laid by adult flies; they are highly photophobic (move away from light) and spend their time burrowing and feeding until pupation.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Can contaminate food and potentially spread bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli). Benefits: Essential decomposers in the ecosystem and used in forensic science and controlled medical maggot therapy.