The first instar larva of Apodacra pulchra (Diptera: Sarcophagidae, Miltogramminae)

Abstract

AbstractThe morphology of the first instar larva of the miltogrammine flesh fly Apodacra pulchra Egger, 1861 is described using SEM and light microscopy. The larva is shown to possess a strongly modified pseudocephalon with comb-like lateral processes, a large ventral organ, and a transversely enlarged, slit-like (or ⊥-shaped) functional mouth opening. The thoracic cuticle is forming longitudinal ridges, and the abdominal segments have a single long lateral sensory sensilla on each side. Morphology is discussed in context of the remaining Oestroidea in general and of the subfamily Miltogramminae in particular.