Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Scatophaga stercoraria (common misspelling of genus)
Explanation of Names
SCATHOPHAGA: from the Greek "skatos" (excrement) + "phagein" (to eat); refers to the larvae, which eat excrement [i.e. dung]
STERCORARIA: from the Latin "stercus, stercoris" (dung); the larvae are found in dung
Identification
adult males are bright yellow or golden; females are usually grayer; both sexes very hairy on body and legs
Range
throughout North America and the world
Habitat
larvae found in/on dung of domestic and wild animals
adults found in the neighborhood of larval development sites (dung) which can be just about anywhere - pastures, meadows, woodlands, beside standing or running water, parks, gardens, etc.
Food
larvae feed on dung
adults prey mostly on other fly species, and occasionally on other insects
Life Cycle
multiple generations per year, the number depending on latitude (more in the south; fewer in the north)
Remarks
This species has been studied extensively in attempting to understand the importance of sperm competition in the evolution of male mating behavior.
Internet References
live adult image (Johannes Skaftason, Iceland)
live adult image of pair mating (Michel Vuijlsteke, Europe)
live adult photo and distribution (Iziko Museums of Cape Town, South Africa)
