'Rat-tailed maggots'

Code QD439999

Syrphid larvae have a very reduced head capsule retracted within the anterior thoracic segments. The posterior spiracles are very close together on the apex of a variable-lengthed retractile tube.

The Syrphids (hoverflies) are a diverse and speciose family. Most larvae are terrestrial, many are aphidophagous, many are saprophagous. However, several taxa, including many in the tribe Eristalini, have larvae of the "rat-tailed maggot" type. Some of these larvae tolerate highly enriched even anoxic conditions, others are found in rot holes in trees. Few life histories of these flies are known for Australian species.