An Interpolation Model of Assimilation by Larvae of the Blowfly Lucilia illustris (Calliphoridae) in Changing Temperatures

A simple mathematical model was constructed on the basis of the results of experiments conducted at constant temperatures. The rate of development predicted was too rapid, but a reduction of 10 % in the production rate was sufficient to decrease it to near the observed one. There were indications of slight time lags in the fluctuation of the respiration rate at changing temperatures. It is suggested that the influence of temperature conditions on the net production efficiency (production/assimilation) of larvae is highest during the most intensive growth period. The effect of the time of day at which the larvae hatch on the duration of development was studied in the model, and the results are considered with reference to the regional coexistence of many species in the carrion microhabitat. It is suggested that the outcome of competition in the individual pieces of carrion depends upon the order of arrival of the different species, and that regional species diversity is thus increased by the patchy occurrence of the microhabitat in space and time.