Arthropods Daily – Issue No. 248

Scathophaga stercoraria, also known as the yellow dung fly, is a sexually dimorphic species found in cooler temperate regions of North America, Asia, and Europe. The adult males have a bright golden-yellow color, while females are duller with green-brown tinges. They primarily feed on smaller insects and also consume nectar and dung. Their reproductive success depends on factors such as sperm competition, nutrition, and environmental temperature. The species has a short lifespan of one to two months and their life cycle involves laying eggs on dung, with larvae feeding and pupating in the soil. Yellow dung flies have phenotypic plasticity, with body size and development rate varying based on factors such as food availability and temperature. They can be preyed upon by birds, bats, and other insects. The yellow dung fly is used as a model organism for various research studies, including reproductive physiology, genetics, and ecotoxicology. It plays a crucial role in decomposing waste in pastures, contributing to nutrient recycling and reducing pest fly populations. However, the use of veterinary drugs in livestock can have unintended adverse effects on yellow dung fly populations if not monitored carefully.