Home > Africa > Angola > Tumba
Cordylobia anthropophaga, tumbu fly larvae
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cordylobia anthropophaga, tumbu fly larvae
Larvae of the tumbu fly or putzi fly common in East and Central Africa. Photographed by Martin Hall
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 8582055
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10711301
Arthropod Arthropoda Blow Fly Blowfly Calliphorid Calliphoridae Calliphorinae Diptera Hexapod Hexapoda Insecta Larva Larvae Martin Hall Parasite Parasitic True Fly Instar Invertebrata
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Insects
> Flies
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "Tumbu Fly Larvae: The Unseen Parasites of East and Central Africa". This photograph showcases the intriguing life cycle of Cordylobia anthropophaga, commonly known as the Tumbu fly or Putzi fly. Native to East and Central Africa, these flies are members of the Calliphoridae family, specifically the subfamily Calliphorinae, and are classified under the order Diptera, true flies, and the class Insecta. The larvae, depicted in this image, are often referred to as mango flies, skin maggot flies, or tumba flies. The Tumbu fly is an obligate parasite, with its larval stage relying on a living host for sustenance. Once an adult female Tumbu fly lays her eggs in or near a potential host, the larvae hatch and burrow into the skin, where they feed on the living tissue. The larvae go through multiple instar stages, shedding their exoskeletons as they grow, before eventually pupating and transforming into an adult fly. Martin Hall, the talented photographer, captured this image of the Tumbu fly larvae, revealing their unique and often unsettling appearance. The hexapod invertebrates exhibit a distinct segmented body structure, with a distinct head capsule, six legs, and a well-defined thorax and abdomen. The larvae's body is covered in tiny hairs, which help them grip onto the host's skin. Despite their parasitic nature, Tumbu flies play an essential role in the ecosystem as decomposers and scavengers. Their presence can be a nuisance to humans, causing discomfort and, in some cases, secondary infections. However, their fascinating life cycle and adaptability to their environment make them a subject of ongoing scientific interest. This image, by Rights Managed from Mary Evans Prints Online, offers a glimpse into the intricacies of the natural world, highlighting the beauty and complexity of the Tumbu fly and its life stages.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
