Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

dweller

(26,760 posts)
2. Article answers my questions
Sat May 3, 2025, 10:48 AM
May 3
The screwworm, whose scientific name “cochliomyia hominivorax” means “man eater,” is actually a fly. It lays its eggs on the wounds as well as noses, eyes, udders and umbilical cord stumps of living mammals. It mostly feeds on animals, but can infect and kill human beings, taking root in abrasions as small as tick bites.
The eggs hatch into larvae, which burrow or “screw” deep into the host’s flesh. “The larvae eat around and down until there is a hole inside the animal the size of your fist,” said Rick Tate, a lifelong rancher from Marfa, Texas. After three to five days, the larva pupates into a fly and begins to reproduce, starting the cycle anew.

😐



✌🏻

Recommendations

3 members have recommended this reply (displayed in chronological order):

Latest Discussions»General Discussion»A Deadly Parasite's Retur...»Reply #2