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Scathophagidae
The Scathophagidae are a small family (biology), family of Muscoidea which are often known as dung flies, although this misnomer, name is not appropriate except for a few species of the genus ''Scathophaga'' which do indeed pass their larval stages in animal dung. The name probably derives from the yellow dung fly (''Scathophaga stercoraria''), which is one of the most abundant and ubiquitous flies in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Description The Scathophagidae are medium-sized or quite small flies with a body length of 3.0 to 12.0 mm. The body is slender, especially in males, usually with an elongated, cylindrical abdomen. Many scathophagids appear more robust, however, due to a dense pubescence. Body colour ranges from yellow to black; some species are glossy, but never with a metallic gloss. Some species are bicolored. The eyes are wide-set on the frons in males and females. The bristles on the head, thorax, and legs are well developed. The occiput usually has ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
Scathophaga Stercoraria
''Scathophaga stercoraria'', commonly known as the yellow dung fly or the golden dung fly, is one of the most familiar and abundant flies in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. As its common name suggests, it is often found on the feces of large mammals, such as horses, cattle, sheep, deer, and wild boar, where it goes to breed. The distribution of ''S. stercoraria'' is likely influenced by human agriculture, especially in northern Europe and North America. The ''Scathophaga'' are integral in the animal kingdom due to their role in the natural decomposition of dung in fields. They are also very important in the scientific world due to their short life cycles and susceptibility to experimental manipulations; thus, they have contributed significant knowledge about animal behavior. Description ''Scathophaga stercoraria'' is sexually dimorphic, with an average lifespan of one to two months. The adult males are bright golden-yellow with orange-yellow fur on the front legs. Females ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
