First finding of larviposition in Calliphora loewi from an island relict forest

Abstract

Larviposition is widespread in blowflies, but among Calliphora species this behavior has seldom been described. The evidence of larviposition in C.loewi is here reported for the first time and discussed in relation with other blowfly species exhibiting the same behavior. The blowfly C.loewi is considered oviparous but surprisingly, female specimens from Madeira Island (Portugal) were found to carry few large larvae (one to three larvae up to 5.1mm in size) in the ovipositor and abdomen. The finding of larviposition behavior in C.loewi from Madeira Island is at present enigmatic and further studies are needed to clarify the reproductive biology of this species. The evidence of larviposition in Calliphora loewi is here reported for the first time and discussed in relation with other blowfly species exhibiting the same behavior. The blowfly C. loewi is considered oviparous but surprisingly female specimens from Madeira Island (Portugal) were found to carry a few large larvae in their ovipositors and abdomen.