Studies on the morphology and taxonomy of the immature stages of calliphoridae, with analysis of phylogenetic relationships within the family, and between it and other groups in the cyclorrhapha (diptera)

Abstract

The present study deals with the taxonomy and morphology of the immature stages of the Diptera family Calliphoridae (blowflies). The eggs were studied, using both the light and the scanning electron microscopes, and structural features were found that enable specific identification. The larvae and puparia of some sixty species were studied, and a large number of new characters were found that enable the separation of species reliably. In addition, various anatomical details, especially of the cephalopharyngeal skeleton, have been elucidated. The cephalopharyngeal skeletons of various related families were studied and compared with the Calliphorid structure. Descriptions of the larvae of sixty species are presented, and keys to various groups, especially those of medical or veterinary importance, are given. A discussion of the evolution and phylogeny of the Calliphoridae and related families is presented, based on the above-mentioned morphological studies and other evidence.