House fly (Muscidae)

Taxonomic group

Family: Muscidae

Diagnostic features

The muscid flies have a range of larval forms depending on the species. Some are simple maggot-like forms lacking any conspicuous structures (prolegs, welts, siphons etc). One muscid group resembles the genus Limnophora (known overseas) and is larger than other muscids, with obvious prolegs and 2 respiratory siphons. The larvae of all forms have no obvious head structure.

House fly (Muscidae) larva (pale) and yellow pupa. Image: Stephen Moore Image — House fly (Muscidae) larva (pale) and yellow pupa. Image: Stephen Moore

House fly [Limnophora]-like larva (arrow indicates head). Image: Stephen Moore Image — House fly Limnophora-like larva (arrow indicates head). Image: Stephen Moore

Typical habitats

Muscid larvae are found in many stream types, and they can be particularly common amongst algal mats on stony streambeds.

Feeding

Muscid larvae are thought to be predators, probably feeding on other fly larvae and worms.

Indicator value

Hard bottom: 3
Soft bottom: 1.6

The tolerance values (ranging from 0 to 10) give an indication of which are the sensitive taxa (values of 8 or more) and which are the tolerant taxa (values of 3 or less). For more information see: Indicator species

Muscids can be found in good quality streams, but they can also thrive in quite polluted streams. Their ability to live in polluted habitats explains their low tolerance values of 3 (hard bottom sites) and 1.6 (soft bottom sites).