Yellow dung fly

Pronunciation: /YEHL-oh DUHNG fly/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Yellow dung fly

Plural: Yellow dung flies

Definition

A species of fly known for its bright yellow coloration, commonly found on dung where it breeds and feeds. It plays a role in nutrient recycling and is known scientifically as Scathophaga stercoraria.

Etymology

The name is descriptive of its color (yellow) and common habitat (dung); 'fly' is from the Old English 'flēoge'.

Example

The yellow dung fly is often seen on cow pats where it lays its eggs and the larvae develop.

Synonyms

Scathophaga stercoraria
Golden dung fly

Related Terms

Diptera
Dung
Scavenger

Usage Notes

The yellow dung fly is notable for its role in the decomposition process and as a subject of ecological and evolutionary studies.