“What is this?” asks this reader about the semi-transparent worm-like organism pictured below. “I was in my house and it was on the back of my neck. I have pets and I am disgusted.” Based on the shape and features of this creature, we would say that it is definitely an insect larva of some kind, though what species in particular we are not sure. The black tip and tapered shape of its body reminds us of a black soldier fly larvae, yet the transparent nature of its skin suggests otherwise. Based on that, we would say it is likely that it is some kind of fly larva.

Fly larvae, while not being safe to consume, are generally harmless to humans and pets alike. The reason they are not safe to consume is because a lot of species of flies can carry disease and pathogens, and so our reader may want to be wary of her pets ingesting these. Of course, she only found one larva, so it is possible there are not more roaming around her home, but she should probably check to be sure. We think it is likely that this larva ended up on her neck when she was outside: perhaps it fell from a tree, or from the roof of her house. If it was inside to begin with, it is possible that there are more larvae in the house. It is not implausible that the mother fly made her way into the house through an open window or door, or through a tear in a window screen, and laid her eggs inside as it was a safe place to do so.

With that in mind, our reader will want to search her home for more larvae, and clean her home thoroughly. Vacuuming will help eliminate any eggs that would go unseen to the naked eye, and cleaning out one’s kitchen will unearth any fly larvae that might be lurking in her food products, munching away (as that is where fly larvae are most likely to be found, given their diet). Additionally, if our reader does grow concerned for her pet’s health, and is worried that they may have ingested these larvae, we suggest she take them to the vet for medical inspection.

In conclusion, we think that the worm-like critter our reader found on her neck is some type of fly larva, though we are not sure exactly what species. If she wants to know the exact species, or she wants a second opinion in general, she can take the larva to her local county extension office, where someone will be able to examine it physically and potentially give her an answer. In any case, we hope this article proves helpful, and we wish her the very best!

Summary

Article Name

Translucent Worm-like Creature with Pointy Rear is a Fly Larva

Description

"What is this?" asks this reader about the semi-transparent worm-like organism pictured below. "I was in my house and it was on the back of my neck. I have pets and I am disgusted." Based on the shape and features of this creature, we would say that it is definitely an insect larva of some kind, though what species in particular we are not sure. The black tip and tapered shape of its body reminds us of a black soldier fly larvae, yet the transparent nature of its skin suggests otherwise. Based on that, we would say it is likely that it is some kind of fly larva.

Author

Worm Researcher Anton