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Hanging in Tar Pits

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The petroleum fly's maggot secretes a fluid that is oil-repellant, allowing it to move easily through the La Brea Tar Pit's asphalt.

Protected from asphalt, the maggots feast on other unfortunate creatures that get stuck in the pit.

The adult petroleum fly is oil-resistent only on its feet. If other parts of its body touch the asphalt, it will get stuck.

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