Often the general form of the larvae is sufficient to identify the insect to order or sometimes further. However, examination of characters that are extremely small and difficult to see may be required. Most of this material is beyond the scope of this training with the exception of the few points mentioned above. If a detailed identification (to genus or species) of a larva is required it usually will be necessary to send a specimen to the appropriate entomology specialist.

Vermiform larvae are worm-like or maggot-like, without legs and without a well-developed head. They occur in the Diptera and the Hymenoptera.