What family do flesh flies belong to?

Flesh flies belong to the family Sarcophagidae. This family is characterized by their habit of laying eggs in decaying organic matter, carrion, or feces, which is where the larvae (maggots) typically develop. Flesh flies are distinct from other fly families due to specific morphological features and their reproductive behaviors. They are often recognized by their grayish coloration and the presence of three dark longitudinal stripes on their thorax.

In contrast, the Calliphoridae family includes blow flies, which are more attracted to fresh carrion. The Stomoxys genus refers to stable flies that are notorious for biting livestock, and Simuliidae refers to black flies, which are known for biting humans and animals. Understanding the distinctions between these families is crucial for pest management and entomological studies, as different families have varying ecological impacts and behaviors.