Calliphora Loewi - Life Cycle

Life Cycle

The life cycle of C. loewi has six stages: the egg, three larval stages (instars), pupae, and adult fly. The adults will lay their eggs on suitable habitats, usually carrion. Larvae will hatch within 6–48 hours after eggs have been deposited. They shed their skins three times during their larval stage. The time it takes to molt into the next instar is fairly consistent; however, temperature can be a factor. Colder weather will slow down the amount of time it takes for each developmental stage, and warmer weather will speed it up. The life cycle from egg to adult can be anywhere from 16–35 days, depending on environmental conditions.