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Eristalis tenax
Rat-tailed maggots are the larvae of some species of hoverfly, commonly Eristalis tenax. A characteristic feature of rat-tailed maggots is a tube-like, three segmented, telescoping breathing siphon located at their posterior end. This acts like a snorkel, allowing the larva to breathe air while submerged. The siphon is usually about as long again as the maggot's body (20 mm when mature), but can be extended as long as 150 mm. It is this organ that gives the larva its common name. It lives in stagnant, oxygen-deprived water, with a high organic content. It is fairly tolerant of pollution and can live in sewage lagoons and cesspools
These larvae, commonly called "mousies" are cultured and sold as fish bait. They are especially popular in ice fishing.
Spotted on Aug 5, 2012
Submitted on Aug 9, 2012
4 Comments
Cool color it's purple!
I am not sure if it is good news either, but at least the organism itself is not dangerous.
oh no, i don't know if that is good news. but you are correct, this is indeed a rat-tailed maggot. Of all the creatures I love, this is now my least favorite.
This is a rat-tailed maggot. They are the larval stage of a species of Syrphid Fly. They are usually found in stagnant water and can often be found in sewage. They don't sting or bite. The "tail" is actually a breathing apparatus.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rat-tailed_...