Calliphora

Calliphora is a genus of blowflies in the family Calliphoridae. Members of this genus are among the largest and most conspicuous blowflies, typically exhibiting a metallic blue to blue-green coloration. The best-known species include Calliphora vomitoria, commonly called the blue bottle fly, and Calliphora vicina. Adults are attracted to exposed animal matter, including carrion and feces, and can be commonly found in urban and rural settings where such substrates occur.

Life cycle and ecology: Calliphora undergo complete metamorphosis. Females lay eggs on suitable substrates such as exposed carcasses or refuse; the eggs hatch into maggots that feed on decaying tissue. There are three larval instars before pupation, and adults emerge after several days to weeks depending on temperature and humidity. Adults feed on nectar and other liquids; larvae are saprophagous and play a role in decomposition. Some Calliphora species can cause myiasis under certain conditions.

Distribution and habitat: Calliphora species have a near-cosmopolitan distribution, occurring in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide. They are most common in environments where animal matter is available, including forests, pastures, and urban areas, with species composition varying by region and season.

Forensic and medical significance: Calliphora species are among the first insects to colonize a decomposing body in many environments, making them important in forensic entomology for estimating postmortem intervals. The development rate of larvae is temperature-dependent, and accurate PMI estimates require correct species identification and local developmental data. In veterinary and medical contexts, Calliphora larvae can contribute to myiasis in animals under favorable conditions.