Cochliomyia hominivorax
Quick Summary
Cochliomyia hominivorax, commonly known as the New World screwworm, is a species of blow fly. The name "screwworm" comes from the screw-like appearance of its larvae.1
These maggots are significant pests that can infest and harm livestock, deer, and even humans. They are considered serious pests due to their parasitic nature on warm-blooded animals.1
Control methods for screwworms have included the sterile-insect technique, where male insects are sterilized and released into wild populations. This method has proven successful in managing screwworm populations, often replacing the need for chemical insecticides.2
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