Journal Published Online: 01 January 2005
Volume 50, Issue 1

Black Soldier Fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) Colonization of Pig Carrion in South Georgia

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (L.), is thought to colonize corpses 20–30 days postmortem. However, recent observations indicate this might not be true for all cases. Therefore, we conducted a study examining colonization by the black soldier fly and other Diptera on pig carrion in a plowed field in southern Georgia from 20 September through 21 February. Our data indicate black soldier flies could colonize a corpse within the first week after death. Knowing this information could prevent a serious mistake in estimating the time at which a corpse is colonized by this species. This study also represents the first record of Chrysomya rufifacies in Georgia.

Author Information

Tomberlin, JK
University of Georgia, Tifton, Georgia Texas A&M University, 1229 N. U.S. Hwy 281 Stephenville, Texas
Sheppard, DC
Texas A&M University, 1229 N. U.S. Hwy 281 Stephenville, Texas
Joyce, JA
Texas A&M University, 1229 N. U.S. Hwy 281 Stephenville, Texas
Pages: 2
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS2003391
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2003391