Old World Screwworm vs Tumbu Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Old World Screwworm | Tumbu Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chrysomya bezziana | Cordylobia anthropophaga |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Calliphoridae | Calliphoridae |
| Size | 8-11 mm | 9-12 mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Indoors |
| Diet | Parasites | Omnivores |
| Regions | Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia | Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Old World Screwworm
An obligate wound parasite of mammals found across Africa and Asia. Larvae invade wounds and feed on living tissue causing severe myiasis.
Did You Know?
Unlike the New World screwworm, no sterile insect program has yet successfully eradicated this species.
Tumbu Fly
An African blow fly whose larvae cause furuncular myiasis in humans and animals. Females lay eggs on soil or clothing hung out to dry.
Did You Know?
Ironing clothes thoroughly after drying them outdoors kills the eggs and prevents skin infestation.