Insect Espionage: Blow Fly Larvae Imitate Termites for Survival

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Termite Termaybe

Flies make the best spies. A rare blow fly in Morocco mimics termites to mooch off their nests.

• Fly larvae wear a “termite mask” on their back

• Breathing holes double as false eyes

• Chemical signatures mimic termite scents to avoid detection

Blending in with underground “cool kids” offers protection and possibly free food. Larvae die before metamorphosing in lab settings, so it could be a while before we fully understand this symbiotic relationship. Classic hardcore spy move.

How do you do, fellow termites?

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