What are the stages in the life cycle of a common household fly?

The life cycle of a common household fly, specifically the house fly (Musca domestica), consists of four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. This development process is known as complete metamorphosis, which is characterized by the fly undergoing significant transformations at each stage.

In the first stage, the female fly lays eggs in suitable locations, often where there is decaying organic matter, which provides food for the emerging larvae. The eggs hatch into larvae, also known as maggots, which feed voraciously and grow rapidly. After reaching a certain size, the larvae enter the pupal stage, where they undergo further transformation. In the pupa stage, the larvae encase themselves in a protective shell and undergo the process of metamorphosis, during which they develop into adults.

Finally, the adult emerges from the pupa, ready to reproduce and continue the cycle. This series of stages demonstrates the complete cycle from an embryo in an egg to a fully developed adult fly. Understanding these stages is crucial in pest management and control strategies for household flies.