Effects of social environment on the behavior of both male and female flesh flies, Sarcophaga crassipalpis

The behavior of female organisms, especially in non-social insect species, have been studied in limited detail. We describe modification in the behavior of females of the flesh fly Sarcophaga crassipalpis. Through video observations of paired females, isolated females, and male-female pairs we have described and analyzed changes in behavior. Close inspection of all behaviors and transitions, including non-interactive behaviors (walk, stand, groom, etc.), interactive behaviors (approach, avoid, retreat, etc.), and aggression in mating pairs, has allowed us to describe sexual and ontogenetic intrinsic behavioral differences between individual and paired, mating and non-mating non-social flies.