Abstract: The blowfly Chrysomya megacephala is an important forensic indicator, resource insect and sanitary pest. It has a close association with human activities at various developmental stages. Distribution, classification and biological background of C. megacephala were briefly introduced in this review, and the forensic application, utilization of larvae to transform organic waste, active substances of larvae and pollination effects of adults were emphatically summarized. Risks caused by larvae and adults of C. megacephala and their probable handling methods were also discussed. New technical applications have broadened the aspects of forensic evidences by C. megacephala. C. megacephala larvae can efficiently consume organic waste such as manure, kitchen waste and sludge. Active substances of larvae will benefit the development of high-value-added products. Releasing of adult C. megacephala as pollinators is still restricted in controlled space although its adults are effective in pollination. The vector characteristic of C. megacephala would still be an obstacle for its wide utilization, and an integration of multiple methods might be the key to solve this problem.

Key words: Chrysomya megacephala, development, forensic application, organic waste transformation, active substances, pollination