Tephritoid Fly

a Tephritoidea Fly observed on dung at Nairobi National Park, Kenya. Photo © by Michael Plagens

Nairobi National Park, Kenya, December 2014. Length is about 4 mm. It is alighted on bovid dung.

The immature stages of Tephritoid Flies, like all flies, are worm-like larvae, often referred to as maggots. Some species tunnel in fruit, others in rotting vegetation, some in carrion, while others are parasitic on other insects. Each species has a unique life cycle, and the specific life cycles are mostly undocumented. From dung the adult flies obtain salts, moisture and nurishment.

Tephritoidea -- Fruit Fly Super-Family

More Kenyan Fruit Flies:

adult fruit fly in display mode photo © Michael Plagens   A picture-wing fruit fly, f. Tephritidae, photo © Michael Plagens  A possible fruit fly, f. Tephritidae, photo © Michael Plagens

More Information:


Kenya Natural History

Copyright Michael J. Plagens. Page created 14 August 2015