3D Model of Phorid Fly (Pseudacteon curvatis) Female

This model represents the phorid fly (Pseudacteon curvatis), derived from specimens in Tennessee State University's entomology collection. It is modified from a base housefly model to include distinctive features such as a humped back, larger eyes, and a smaller head, along with the long, curved ovipositor characteristic of female P. curvatus.

The model is intended for demonstration purposes and should not be used for species identification, as it is a freehand sculpture and may contain anatomical inaccuracies. Real phorid flies are less than two millimeters long and nearly invisible to the naked eye, making this model approximately 50x scale.

Pseudacteon flies are parasitoids of the South American fire ant, having been unintentionally introduced worldwide along with their hosts. They are studied as a biocontrol method for invasive fire ants. Female flies actively dive-bomb fire ants to lay their eggs in the ant's abdomen, where larvae feed on the living ant. Eventually, the larva migrates into the ant's head, killing it and releasing enzymes that cause the head to detach, allowing the adult fly to emerge.

This model features fine details, particularly in the legs, which may pose challenges for FDM printing unless scaled up. A minimum scale of 1.5x is recommended, with the model oriented head-up. The photos showcase hand-painted details, and clear resin was used for the transparent wings.