Are Flies Attracted to Fire?
WouterFire ants release a distinctive alarm pheromone, which attracts flies. The phorid flies, Pseudacteon obtusus and P. curvatus, are attracted to this alarm pheromone. They are also attracted to the venom alkaloids in fire ants. These flies can be biological control agents in the presence of fire ants.
The smell of a burning fire can attract flies, which can spoil a fun outdoor activity. However, most flies are not attracted to smoke. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including Microsania flies. Flies that are attracted to smoke are usually attracted to food being cooked.
During a forest fire, first responders rush to the scene to try and control the flames. Their aim is to divert the fire to a less-populated area. However, firefighters may encounter other animals moving toward the blaze. Some insects, like fire-chasers, lay their eggs on freshly burned wood.
Although fire has a variety of uses in agriculture, it has been traditionally used by indigenous tribes to control insect infestations. But commercial livestock operators have not yet embraced this natural way to control flies. While there are many documented instances of fire reducing the number of horn flies and external parasites in livestock, the use of fire has not been widely adopted in agriculture.
Moths, which fly near fire, are also attracted to fire. When moths are attracted to light and fire, they tend to spiral in toward the light. Eventually, they may even be drawn into the flame.
