How Can Flies Predict Rain?
Flies can predict the weather with remarkable accuracy. Using simple weather variables, they have shown the ability to predict the number of M. domestica. This knowledge could be used to restrict the use of prophylactic insecticides. By using these methods, farmers could reduce the frequency of spraying while at the same time increasing the effectiveness of the spray.
The weather is crucial to insects’ survival. Rain can cause their wings to stick together. Additionally, they might not have enough energy to keep flying. As a result, many flies will seek shelter under leaves or logs. However, this could make them waterlogged and lose their flight ability. Because of this, they will try to flee the area where the weather is bad. Some flies have special hair that makes them resistant to water.
In Brazil, entomologists Jose Bento and his team discovered a strange phenomenon: insects remained still on some days when rain was predicted. This unusual behavior occurred mostly when the weather conditions were controlled in a laboratory. The researchers wondered whether the insects were preparing themselves to deal with the rain by reacting to the falling pressure.
Flies are known to predict the weather through their pheromones. These signals indicate when the rainy season is approaching. They also release a chemical that tells them to find a mate. In addition, flies have the ability to detect changes in weather in four weeks.