Which fly is characterized by large metallic shining blue, green, or black abdomens?

The blowfly is characterized by its large metallic, shining blue, green, or black abdomens, which are prominent features of this group of insects. This distinctive coloration comes from the structural properties of their exoskeleton, which reflects light in a way that creates a shiny appearance. Blowflies, often found in decaying organic matter, play an important role in the ecosystem as decomposers. They are also significant in forensic science due to their attraction to corpses, helping to determine the time of death in investigations.

In contrast, houseflies have a less metallic and more dull coloration, while fruit flies are much smaller with a different coloration and body shape that is not metallic. Stable flies, known for their painful bite, also do not exhibit the same shiny metallic appearance as blowflies. The identification of blowflies by their distinctive coloring is vital in both entomology and practical applications such as pest control and forensic science.