D3327: Blow Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) of Joshua Tree National Park

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

9:00 AM – 2:00 PM PT

Location: West Exhibit Hall A

Presenting Author(s)

Hannah Chu

PhD Candidate
University of California
Riverside, California

Co-Author(s)

Amy C. Murillo

Assistant Professor
University of California
Riverside, California

Recent studies have demonstrated that blow fly (Diptera: Calliphoridae) presence and distribution may be potential bioindicators for anthropogenic change and success of conservation efforts. Blow flies are also capable of mechanically transmitting pathogens that cause human and wildlife disease. Lastly, they play a significant role in homicide investigations where their larval development may narrow down a time of death. While these important flies are so widespread, we are lacking detailed information about their presence, especially in desert environments. This project aims to establish a database of blow fly species present within Joshua Tree National Park (JTNP). JTNP includes the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, and a transition zone between the deserts. Using baited traps and aerial sweep collections, we will record species composition across the two deserts and the transition zone. The results of this study will impact monitoring disease outbreaks caused by blow flies, inform management practices and conservation efforts of native blow fly species, and provide a database of blow flies in Joshua Tree National Park that local law enforcement and researchers may use.