What Fly Larvae Come From
WouterThe larvae of flies usually feed on the tissues of living organisms. Two different types of myiasis exist: obligate myiasis, where the maggots feed on living tissue, and facultative myiasis, in which they feed on dead tissues. Both types of myiasis may occur in humans. The first type is usually tropical in origin, while the second type can occur anywhere.
Maggots are small, off-white, worm-like creatures. They are typically found near dead animals, rotting vegetable matter, and animal manure. Once they are mature, the maggots migrate to a high and dry location, where they develop into flies.
Although maggots are often associated with decaying matter, they can actually feed on almost anything that is organic. They can live on garbage, carpeting, and wallpaper, as well as bird seed, people hair, plants, and compost piles. Although maggots can live in virtually any home environment, they are still unsanitary and unsightly.
The larvae of house flies have a three-stage development cycle. Once fully grown, they are 7 to 12mm long and greasy. During this stage, they lay eggs that can be consumed by various species. House fly larvae also tend to thrive in high-moisture manure. The optimal temperature for larval development is about 35-38degC, and they complete their development in four to thirteen days. When temperatures are low, however, it can take up to 30 days to reach maturity.
Although larval therapy is not yet widely used in the UK, it is a proven and safe treatment for infections where antibiotics have failed. It has helped people who previously had no hope. Researchers now work on new ways of using maggots in a clinical setting.
