Mimicry in the Jungle: How a Fly Larva Sneaks into a Termite Nest

A fly larva has been found to have evolved remarkable adaptations to live among termites without being detected. The larvae, which are part of the blow fly species, have developed a unique "termite mask" on their rear end, complete with non-functional antennae and palps, which are identical to those of large harvester termites. This disguise allows the larvae to blend in with their surroundings and evade the colony’s soldier termites, which swiftly dismember intruders.

A Chancing Discovery

The discovery was made by an international team of researchers in Morocco, who were studying butterflies and ants in the area. After a heavy rainfall, the researchers were looking for ants, but instead found a termite mound with three fly larvae that they had never seen before. The larvae were living among the termites and were even being cared for by them.

The "Termite Mask"

The researchers identified a head-shaped appendage on the rear end of the larvae, which they called the "termite mask." This appendage is complete with non-functional antennae and palps, which are all the same size as those of large harvester termites. The larvae’s breathing holes even resemble eyes on the termite mask, which allows them to mimic the colony’s distinctive scent.

Mimicking the Termites

The researchers found that the larvae have also developed antennae-like tentacles along their bodies, which help them communicate with multiple termites at once. The larvae are able to mimic the termites’ smell, which is an essential part of their social interaction. The researchers quantified the chemical composition of the larvae and found that they are indistinguishable from the termites in the colony.

Benefits of Living Among Termites

The researchers observed that the larvae were able to benefit from living among the termites. They were able to hang out in the most trafficked area of the termite nest, where their termite hosts preened them and may have even fed them. However, the researchers admit that this latter behavior needs to be confirmed.

New Species Discovery

The researchers believe that they have discovered a new species of fly that has evolved social integration. The common ancestor of blow flies and humpback flies dates back over 150 million years, making this discovery a significant one. The researchers speculate that the species must have evolved quickly, and are confident that they have discovered a new case of social integration evolution.

Unique "Lifestyle"

The researchers also revealed that the new fly is a member of the genus Rhyncomya, which is not known to have any other members demonstrating this sort of unique lifestyle. As scientists are not aware of any other Rhyncomya flies showing this level of mimicry, the researchers are confident that they have discovered a new and unique species.

Conclusion

The researchers make the claim of being the first to observe a blow fly living in disguise among termites, and they believe that their discovery is a significant one. Who knows how many failed pretenders were dismembered by soldier termites before they got the camouflage right? The researchers are excited about their discovery and are eager to learn more about this unique and fascinating species.