Abundance, Population Fluctuation, and Synanthropy of Calliphoridae (DIPTERA) in Northwestern Paraná

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the synanthropy of blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in northwestern Paraná, Brazil, through simultaneous collections in three different environments (urban, rural, and forest) using baited traps. Theoretical Framework: Blow flies are found in a wide range of environments and are strongly associated with human-modified areas. This characteristic, along with their feeding habits, gives them medical, veterinary, and forensic importance. Method: Three baited traps were installed in each environment and remained active for 72 hours, with biweekly collections from November 2022 to November 2023. The traps used protein-based attractants to capture adult flies. Results and Discussion: A total of 577 individuals belonging to six species were collected, with no significant difference in species abundance among environments. Chrysomya albiceps was the most abundant and highly synanthropic species (+97.3). Lucilia eximia was considered hemisynanthropic (-28.4), while Chrysomya putoria (+2.6) and Chrysomya megacephala (+30.8) showed preference for populated areas. Hemilucilia semidiaphana showed strong aversion to anthropized areas (-53.7), and only one Cochliomyia macellaria specimen was recorded. Abiotic variables had no influence on species abundance or seasonality. Research Implications: The results provide valuable data on the distribution, abundance, and synanthropic behavior of blowflies, contributing to a better understanding of their ecological roles and impacts on human and animal health. Originality/Value: This study presents novel data on the blow fly fauna of northwestern Paraná, highlighting the synanthropic tendencies of native and invasive species, with potential applications in forensic entomology, public health, and environmental monitoring.