About 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.
How to Identify Old World Screwworm
Old World Screwworm (Chrysomya bezziana) belongs to the order Diptera, family Calliphoridae. Adults typically measure 8-11 mm.
Old World Screwworm Habitat
Old World Screwworm is found in forests habitats, particularly across Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Old World Screwworm Diet and Feeding
Old World Screwworm is a parasitic species that feeds on or within a host organism. Parasitic insects have evolved specialised adaptations to exploit their hosts while avoiding detection.
Where Is Old World Screwworm Found?
Old World Screwworm can be found in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Old World Screwworm can be found
Is Old World Screwworm Dangerous?
Old World Screwworm is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Old World Screwworm Role in Nature
Old World Screwworm plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Old World Screwworm are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Old World Screwworm
What does Old World Screwworm look like?
The Old World Screwworm typically measures 8-11 mm.
Where is Old World Screwworm found?
The Old World Screwworm is found in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia and typically inhabits forests environments.
What does Old World Screwworm eat?
The Old World Screwworm is a parasite that feeds on a host organism.
Is Old World Screwworm dangerous to humans?
The Old World Screwworm is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Old World Screwworm?
Unlike the New World screwworm, no sterile insect program has yet successfully eradicated this species.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Old World Screwworm (Chrysomya bezziana). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/old-world-screwworm
MLA:
"Old World Screwworm." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/old-world-screwworm.