Seasonal abundance of carrion-frequenting blow-flies (Diptera : Calliphoridae) in the Kruger National Park

Abstract

Monthly population fluctuations of carrion-frequenting blow-flies over a 24-month period were monitored using 2 carrion-baited traps in the southern Kruger National Park (KNP) and 3 in the northern KNP. All species displayed a clear seasonality. Chrysomyia marginalls and Chrysomyia albiceps were by far the most abundant. C. marginalis attained maximum abundance between November and March, with relatively low numbers present between May and September. C. albiceps maintained high population numbers between January and March in the northern KNP, with minimum numbers between May and August. In the southern KNP, C. albiceps became abundant from November to February, with low population levels between April and September. Although present only in relative low numbers, populations of Lucilia cuprina showed a clear increase in winter. Chrysomyia chloropyga, Chrysomyia putoria and Chrysomyia bezziana were trapped in significant numbers in the southern KNP, the latter 2 species reaching relative abundance in the warmer months, whereas C. chloropyga increased in cooler months from June to September. Graphic illustrations of monthly abundance are provided for all species.