Maggots are the larvae stage of flies, most commonly the housefly (Musca domestica). The lifecycle of a maggot transforming into a fly happens in several stages:
- Egg: A female fly lays eggs, which hatch in about 24 hours.
- Larvae: The maggots hatch from the eggs and feed on decaying organic material. This stage lasts about 3 to 6 days.
- Pupa: After feeding, maggots enter the pupa stage, during which their bodies transform inside a protective shell (similar to a cocoon). This stage lasts around 10 days.
- Adult fly: The fully developed fly emerges from the pupa.
Thus, maggots turn into adult flies after undergoing metamorphosis during the pupal stage. The whole process from egg to fly usually takes just over two weeks, but can be faster in warm conditions. Flies then continue the lifecycle by laying eggs and producing more maggots. In summary, maggots turn into flies.