Maggots activity

Thomas, S., Andrews, A., Hay, P and Bourgoise, S. (1999). The antimicrobial activity of maggot secretions Results of a preliminary study. /. Tissue Viabil. 9, 127-132. 

The Staphylinidae, or rove beetles, may be found in the surface layer of soil. They are voracious maggot predators, actively chasing maggots below the soil surface (Smith 1986). These beetles may arrive shortly following colonization of the corpse by blowfly larvae, with peak numbers under and around the corpse observed just prior to and at the time of larval migration from the corpse (Putman 1978). 

Clostridium botulinum is widespread in soil and only requires warm temperatures, a protein source and an anaerobic environment to become active and produce toxin. Decomposing vegetation or invertebrates in summer can provide ideal conditions. Birds are most commonly affected by type C toxin, type E toxin being less important. Usually, fly larvae (maggots) feed on animal carcasses and store the toxin birds such as ducks which then eat the maggots can develop botulism even if only a small number (three or four) larvae are consumed. Birds can also ingest the toxin directly if they are carrion-feeders. As C. botulinum toxin affects the central nervous system transmission, affected birds are unable to fly or walk. Birds with paralysed neck muscles cannot hold up their heads and may therefore drown. Outbreaks are relatively common in the US and Canada from July to September and may claim the lives of thousands of birds. 

The roots of Stemona plants (Stemonaceae) are one of the common Chinese medicines used as anticough agent and insecticides. The alcohol extract of the roots was shown active to kill insects such as humanis captitis, pediculus humanis, bedbug, maggot, weevil, wiggler and other insects [57]. 

Bexfield, A., 2004. Detection and partial characterisation of two antibacterial factors from the excretions/secretions of the medicinal maggot Lucilia sericata and their activity against methiciUin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Microbes and Infection 6 (14), 1297-1304. 

Fipronil s high intrinsic activity against Dipterans allows its successful use as a seed treatment in several crops for control of root maggots. In cereals, fipronil provides excellent control of wireworm and wheat bulb fly (Delia coarctata) at rates of 50 g per 100-kg seed [8]. In leeks, seeds filmDelia antiqua) as well as thrips and onion moth [106, 107]. 

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