Do Flies Help the Earth?
WouterThe answer to the question of do flies help the earth is a resounding “yes.” The fact is that flies play an essential role in the ecosystem, breaking down decaying matter. This process is vital because it releases organic nutrients back into the circulation. Additionally, flies are very useful as a food source for other creatures. As such, they help the environment in many ways.
Many people associate flies with disease and dirt, but the fact is that most of them are beneficial to our ecosystems. In fact, there are over 100 000 species of flies on the planet. Understanding the role flies play in our environment can help us protect them from the threat of extinction.
The most common species is the house fly, which is grayish in color and found in nearly all countries. It is a major carrier of E. coli and salmonella. Other species include gnats and midges. Some flies, such as fruit flies and drain flies, are harmful to humans and can spread disease through biting.
In Australia, researchers are working on a five-year multi-institution project to find the most effective insect for each crop. They are studying the best method of rearing a fly and then testing candidate flies on various crops. Some of these crops include mangoes, avocados, blueberries, and vegetable seed.
