Sarcophaga bullata are gray flesh flies. These flies are reared on decaying flesh and pupate quickly, within 5 to 7 days from birth, to illustrate complete metamorphosis in Diptera.

The (uninfected) pupae can serve as the host organism for emerging Nasonia larvae. The pupae can be stored under refrigeration for several weeks, effectively halting their life cycle and assuring a fresh supply of food for the Nasonia larvae.