Community identification
Fly Larva (Maggot)
Diptera (Suborder Brachycera)
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera; Family: Varied (often Muscidae or Calliphoridae)
- Size
- 2mm to 20mm depending on the species and growth stage (instar).
Natural Habitat
Found in decaying organic matter, animal waste, moist environments, and occasionally indoors near food or trash.
Diet & Feeding
Decomposing organic material, liquid protein, bacteria, or necrotic tissue.
Behavior Patterns
Photophobic (avoid light); they burrow into their food source. Undergo several molts (instars) before pupating into an adult fly.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include the spread of bacteria/disease if found in homes. Benefits include acting as decomposers in the ecosystem and use in forensic entomology or medical larval therapy.