Calliphoridae
- Pronunciation
- /KAL-i-FOR-i-dee/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Calliphorid
- Plural
- Calliphorids
Definition
A family of flies characterized by their often metallic blue or green coloration and their role as both scavengers and parasites.
Etymology
Named after the Greek words 'kallos', meaning 'beautiful', and 'phoros', meaning 'bearing'.
Example
Calliphoridae flies are often referred to as blowflies or bluebottles.
Synonyms
- Blowflies
- Bluebottles
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Calliphoridae flies are important in forensic entomology due to their role in decomposing bodies.