The Status of the Two Species of Lucilia (Diptera, Calliphoridae) Attacking Sheep in Austhalia

Abstract

L. cuprina and L. sericata are distinct spp. distinguished by a number of characters previously unrecognized in larvae and both sexes of adults. The spp. differ in geographical distr., in habitat preference and in degree of attraction to living sheep. Hybridization expts. indicate great difficulty in obtaining successful matings. L. cuprina is the principal Australian sheep blowfly, whereas L. sericata is comparatively rare and does little damage. There are 2 subspp. of L. cuprina, L. c. cuprina from the Orient and America, and L. c. dorsalis from Africa and Australia.