marsh fly

insect

Also known as: Sciomyzidae, Sepedon

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marsh fly, (family Sciomyzidae), any member of a family of insects in the fly order, Diptera, in which the parasitic larvae are known to prey on slugs, snails, and other mollusks. These medium-sized flies occur worldwide. There are about 600 known species, each associated with certain types of host, and are usually found in marshy habitats. Eggs are commonly laid on the host animal on which the larva feeds. After the larva matures it may pupate inside the shell of the consumed snail. Adult flies, varied in form, often have a yellowish or brown body and dappled wings.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.