Have you ever seen green bottle flies? Well, I did, but I was not able to identify them right away and thus decided to do some research about the same. Today in the content of this article, we will discuss the green bottle flies facts and information.
Appearance and Size Facts
Green bottle flies, also known as blowflies, are a type of fly that is typically metallic green or blue in color.
They are distinguishable from other types of flies by their three bristles on the dorsal mesothorax, located in the middle of the back. They vary in size but can be up to 1/2 inch long.
In order to differentiate between the two types of green bottle flies, a microscopic examination of the body and the occipital setae is necessary. The blue-black body and the occipital setae with one to nine bristles per side are the two main distinguishing characteristics.
Interestingly, the eyes of L. sericata are small, and their wings are a slightly different color. Additionally, green bottle flies can be identified by their metallic shine and the fact that they are attracted to light. This identification is essential.
Behavior and Habitat of Green Bottle Flies
Green bottle flies are scavengers and play an important role in the decomposition process. They are attracted to dead animals and other rotting material, where they lay their eggs. The larvae that hatch from these eggs feed on the rotting material, helping to break it down.
They often deposit their eggs directly into open wounds or carcasses, but they will also infest necrotic tissue. As a result, these insects can transmit dangerous diseases to both animals and humans.
Interestingly, green bottle fly larvae have a very short development time. They will hatch within half a day to three days and immediately begin feeding on the decomposing animal matter they were hatched in.
This voracious appetite allows them to grow quickly and reach their adult stage within two weeks.
Green bottle flies are interesting creatures that have a number of unique behaviors. For instance, during cold weather, pupae and adults can hibernate until warmer temperatures revive them.
They also have an affinity for fermenting fruit and vegetables and will often congregate around compost heaps or landfills.
Nesting Habits
After an animal dies, these flies are frequently the first insects to arrive and infest it. Forensic entomologists typically employ the larvae of green bottle flies to help estimate the time of death in murder cases.
On warm, bright days, these flies are most active, and on cool and/or gloomy days, they rest. They are drawn to bright light from windows, as well as particular light bulbs when they are indoors.
Flies can be attracted to dead rodents, birds, and other small animals within structures, while dog excrement, garbage, and compost piles are popular outdoor sources.
Damage
Green bottle flies can cause a lot of damage, especially when they are around meat and other food items. They can transfer pathogenic bacteria from animal excrement to food, which can make people very sick.
In addition, these flies also contaminate surfaces with their feces, which can lead to the spread of disease.
Salmonella is a common pathogen that is transferred by green bottle flies. This bacteria can cause food poisoning and other serious health problems. It is important to be aware of the dangers posed by these flies and take steps to prevent them from contaminating your food.
Lifecycle
Green bottle flies have a typical fly lifecycle. The female deposits eggs, which hatch into the larva. The larva then passes through three instars before emerging as an adult fly.
The female deposits her eggs near or on decaying organic matter. The eggs hatch into the larva that feeds on the decomposing material. The larva passes through three instars during development before emerging as an adult fly.
Interestingly, the development of green bottle fly larvae is temperature-dependent. The warmer the temperature, the faster they will develop.
At 17 °C (62 °F), the first larval instar lasts about 54 hours, the second about 44 hours, and the third about 98 hours. If you are trying to get rid of these pests, keep this in mind!
The lifecycle of a green bottle fly starts when the third-instar larvae leave their host and enter into a “wandering” stage.
They will drop off the host in search of an appropriate location that has soft enough soil so they can bury themselves and enter into a pupal stage. This process usually lasts from 6 to 14 days.
Additionally, if there is a lack of food, the larvae will enter a state of diapause and wait for better conditions. When the pupa is ready to emerge as an adult, it will chew its way out of the decaying matter.
If the conditions are not ideal, the pupa may die or never emerge as an adult. In some cases, the adults may bury themselves in the soil next to the decaying matter so that they can avoid dehydration.
Diet
Green Bottle Flies, or sericata, is a type of fly that feed exclusively on dead organic tissue.
As the eggs are laid directly into the carrion, they are able to feast on the corpse on which they hatch till they are ready to pupate. This means that green bottle flies can be found near decaying matter of all types.
Interestingly, adult green bottle flies have a varied diet that includes carrion and feces, as well as pollen and nectar. This is important because they are both pollinators in their native range and agents of decomposition.
Furthermore, green bottle flies are attracted to both sapromyophilous and ammophilous flowers. The former emits a carrion-like odor that attracts the flies, while the latter has petals that are colored yellow, which reminds the flies of the food.
Biology
Green bottle flies are a type of fly that is found all over the world. They are most commonly known for their habit of laying eggs on dead animals. Female green bottle flies will lay eggs at one time, and the eggs will hatch into larvae.
The larvae will feed and grow for ten days or more until they are ready to pupate. Depending on the species and environmental conditions, there can be up to three generations of green bottle flies produced each year.
Interestingly, temperatures play a role in how long it takes for eggs to hatch. Eggs that are hatched at a lower temperature will take longer to develop into larva and eventually flies. Conversely, eggs that are hatched at a higher temperature will hatch more quickly.
Control Challenge
Green bottle flies are a common nuisance in the summertime. They are attracted to filth and can be difficult to exclude from a facility. Their presence can present a health challenge, as they are known carriers of disease.
Summertime always brings new challenges for homeowners. The most common challenge in the summer is controlling flies and other pests. There are a variety of solutions available, but it is important to find the right one for your specific needs.
There are many options for fly control, but the most effective methods vary depending on the species of fly. For example, some traps work well for fruit flies, while others are better for houseflies. Likewise, different sprays and dust can be used to control different types of flies.
Signs of Infestation of Green Bottle Flies
Green bottle flies are a common sign of infestation by these insects. They are attracted to rotting organic matter, so if you see these flies around your home, it is likely that there is some sort of decomposing material nearby that is attracting them.
If you see an increase in green bottle flies, there may be an infestation. Signs of an infestation can include adults or larvae. Additionally, the flies may be congregating near rotting food or garbage. If you see any of these signs, please contact a professional to help address the issue.
Tips for Prevention of Green Bottle Flies
There are a few things you can do to help prevent green bottle flies from becoming a problem in your home or business. First, eliminate their breeding and feeding sites.
This means keeping your property clean and free of garbage and other organic material that can attract flies. You can also use traps and deterrents to keep them away.
In order to prevent the infestation of green bottle flies, it is important to be aware of their habits. First and foremost, they are attracted to rotting organic matter, so keeping your trash cans clean is a good way to start.
They can also be found near food sources like meat and vegetables, so make sure these areas are clean and free of debris.
Green Bottle Fly Health Concerns
Though green bottle flies might seem innocuous, they can actually carry pathogenic bacteria that can infect food in homes and even larvae that infect human tissues.
For this reason, it is important to be aware of the health risks associated with these flies and take steps to prevent them from entering your home.
Summary
Hopefully, now you will understand these pests a little better and will thus be in a position to take the requisite steps. In case you do not understand how to tackle these pests on your own, then the best you can do is reach out to a professional pest control company.