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What are maggots also known as?

Published in Entomology 1 min read

Maggots are also known as the larvae of many dipterous flies.

Maggots represent a specific stage in the life cycle of various fly species. They are the larval form, typically soft-bodied and legless, and undergo several stages of development before transforming into pupae and eventually adult flies. Not all fly larvae are considered maggots; this term generally applies to those with a particular appearance and lifestyle.

Here's a breakdown:

  • Dipterous Flies: The term refers to flies belonging to the order Diptera, characterized by having only two wings.
  • Larvae: The immature form of an insect that undergoes metamorphosis.
  • Maggots: A specific type of larva, usually associated with flies that lay their eggs on decaying organic matter.

Therefore, while "maggot" is the common term, it's crucial to understand that they are the larval stage of certain types of flies, specifically those within the Diptera order.

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