Virtual Exhibit on Canada's Biodiversity






back to order Diptera
insect database

Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial

Feeding Habits
Adults: nectar and pollen feeding
Immatures:

Size: 3 to 18 mm
Flight : strong flier

North American
Species:
350


Diptera Sarcophagidae
Flesh flies

Front Wings: membranous
Hind Wings: reduced to halteres
Mouthparts: sponging
Antenna Length: shorter than body
Antenna Shape: straight
Front Legs: unmodified
Hind Legs: unmodified

Special Characteristics: Sarcophagidae are medium to large sized, robust flies, usually black with gray stripes on the thorax. The calypters at the base of the wings are well developed.

Comments: Most larvae are scavengers and live in carrion, decaying organic matter, or dung. Some species feed on living tissues and will invade wounds. Some are internal parasites of other insects especially beetles and grasshoppers, and a few are internal parasites of vertebrates, including humans. Others are associated with the nests of bees and wasps and eat the materials stored for the developing host larvae.

Species:
Ravinia lherminieri (Robineau-Desvoidy)

Common Name:

Feeding Habits: Larvae of Ravinia feed in dung and other decaying materials.

Distribution:
Southern Canada