Black Soldier Fly

Description:

Black soldier fly larvae are used to compost and sanitize wastes, and/or convert the wastes into animal feed. The harvested pupae and prepupae, are eaten by poultry, fish, pigs, turtles; even dogs. The wastes include fresh manure, food wastes of both animal and vegetable origin. The black soldier fly is a common and widespread creature of the family Stratiomyidae, whose larvae are common detritivores in compost heaps. Larvae are also sometimes found in association with carrion, and have significant potential for use in forensic entomology. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) may be used in manure management, for house fly control and reduction in manure volume. Mature larvae and prepupae raised in manure management operations may also be used to supplement animal feeds. BSFL are sold as feeders for owners of herptiles and tropical fish, or as composting grubs. They store high levels of calcium for future pupation which is beneficial to herptiles.

Habitat:

Seen near lantana plants in my garden.

Notes:

Experimenting with the 18-55 lens.