Larva of Housefly is known as Maggot

The correct answer to the question is option 'B', Maggot. A larva is the immature stage of an insect, and in the case of a housefly, it is called a maggot. Houseflies undergo a complete metamorphosis, which means they go through several distinct stages of development before becoming adults.

Housefly Life Cycle

The life cycle of a housefly consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Each stage has its own characteristics and serves a specific purpose in the fly's life.

Egg Stage
- The life cycle begins when a female housefly lays eggs on a suitable food source, such as rotting organic matter or feces.
- The eggs are small, white, and oblong in shape. They are typically laid in clusters of around 100-150 eggs.
- Under optimal conditions, the eggs hatch within 24 hours.

Larva Stage (Maggot)
- Once the eggs hatch, the larvae emerge. These larvae are commonly known as maggots.
- Maggots have a worm-like appearance with a soft, elongated body and no legs. They are usually white or cream-colored.
- They feed voraciously on the organic matter they are born into, helping to break it down and decompose it.
- The larval stage is the longest stage in the housefly life cycle, lasting about 5-10 days depending on environmental conditions and food availability.
- As maggots grow, they molt several times, shedding their skin and increasing in size.

Pupa Stage
- After the larval stage, maggots undergo a dramatic transformation into pupae.
- The pupa stage is a resting phase where the maggot's body undergoes complete reorganization.
- During this stage, the maggot forms a hard outer shell, known as the puparium, which protects the developing fly inside.
- Inside the puparium, the maggot undergoes metamorphosis and develops into an adult fly.

Adult Stage
- Finally, the adult housefly emerges from the puparium. It breaks open the puparium and emerges with fully developed wings and reproductive organs.
- The adult housefly is capable of flight and reproduction.
- Female houseflies are known for their ability to lay eggs, starting the life cycle all over again.

In conclusion, the larva of a housefly is known as a maggot. Maggots play an important role in the decomposition of organic matter and are commonly found in environments where there is decaying material. Understanding the life cycle of the housefly can help in implementing effective control measures to manage their population.

Larva of houseflies is known as Maggot.