Flies: The Tiny Pests

Introduction

Flies are small insects that are commonly found all over the world. They belong to the order Diptera, which means two wings. Flies are known for their ability to quickly reproduce and infest areas, making them a common household pest. There are over 120,000 species of flies, with some being more of a nuisance than others.

Physical Characteristics

Flies are typically small insects, ranging in size from 1 to 25 millimeters in length. They have two wings, which they use to fly, and compound eyes that give them a wide field of vision. Flies also have mouthparts that are designed for sucking, lapping, or piercing, depending on the species. Many flies are known for their quick movements and agility in the air.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a fly consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Female flies lay their eggs in decaying organic matter, such as garbage, animal feces, or rotting food. The eggs hatch into larvae, which feed on the organic matter and grow rapidly. The larvae then enter the pupal stage, where they undergo metamorphosis before emerging as adult flies.

Health Risks

Flies are not only a nuisance but also pose health risks to humans. They are known to carry and transmit a variety of diseases, including salmonella, E. coli, and cholera. Flies can pick up pathogens from contaminated surfaces and then transfer them to food or surfaces in your home. It is essential to take measures to control fly infestations to prevent the spread of disease.