Can Flies Eat You Alive?

Fly bites are one of the most common types of insect bites and most people have experienced them at least once. According to the University of California Museum of Paleontology, there are approximately 120,000 species of flies in the world. Many of these flies feed on human blood and other bodily fluids and they are particularly attracted to the smell of ammonia. This smell is emitted by sweat and agricultural produce, and it is used by insects to locate food sources.

Many species of flies do not have teeth, so they cannot chew solid food. However, some species of flies have mouthparts that are shaped like spongy straws. Their digestive juices liquefy the food they consume and regurgitate it back out. Some species also have very strong digestion capabilities and can eat very concentrated foods.

Flies that feed on human flesh are referred to as carrion flies. While most of these species feed on dead flesh, a few species prefer to feed on living humans. These flies are known to feed on decaying organic matter, and they also spread pathogens. While they are a nuisance in human societies, their role in the natural world is essential. Their feeding habits and complex biology have allowed them to thrive and endure.

Flies can cause a number of diseases, including food poisoning and diarrhea. They can transmit cholera and typhoid fever. They can also carry parasitic worms.

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