Sarcophaginae is the largest subfamily of flesh flies (Family: Sarcophagidae), characterized by 0.16–0.9 inch long, grey/black striped, bristled bodies with red eyes and checkerboard abdomens. They are mostly larviparous, giving birth to live larvae on carrion, dung, or organic waste. These flies are crucial in forensics for estimating post-mortem intervals.
Key Facts About Sarcophaginae
Appearance: They possess three black longitudinal stripes on the thorax, a distinct gray-and-black checkered abdomen, red eyes, and a, often red, tail-like abdomen tip.
Reproduction (Larviparity): Unlike many insects, female Sarcophaginae are generally larviparous, producing live, developed maggots directly onto food sources rather than laying eggs.
Larval Diet: Larvae (maggots) are mostly necrophagous, feeding on decaying organic matter, carrion, or feces. Some species are parasitoids of other insects, while others cause intestinal or tissue myiasis.
Habits: Adults are often found near carrion or filth and are among the first insects to arrive at a carcass, making them essential for forensic entomology.
Identification: Most species are difficult to identify by sight; positive identification requires microscopic examination of the male genitalia.
Common Genus: The genus Sarcophaga is widely distributed and common, including species like Sarcophaga carnaria and Sarcophaga crassipalpis.
