In a remarkable discovery, researchers have found blow fly larvae in the mountains of Morocco with fake termite faces on their rear ends. These larvae use this clever disguise to infiltrate termite colonies, where they are able to live among the soldiers without being detected.
The larvae’s extreme mimicking strategy involves modified breathing holes that resemble termite eyes and sensory organs that mimic termite antennae. They also produce scent chemicals that match the termites’ unique odor, allowing them to blend in seamlessly.
Researchers believe that these larvae may be a new species of blow fly, but further study is needed to confirm this. The team collected the larvae and termites and took them back to the lab for analysis, where they found several adaptations that enable the larvae to survive and thrive within the termite colony.
The discovery highlights the remarkable ability of insects to evolve complex strategies for social integration and survival. It also raises questions about the diet and adult form of these mysterious larvae, which remain unknown at this time.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/animals/insects/moroccan-fly-maggot-uses-fake-face-on-its-butt-to-infiltrate-termite-colony