How Many Different Types of Flies Exist?
Flies are tiny creatures that live in our surroundings. They have a number of interesting characteristics, which makes them an essential part of the ecosystem. They can be found all over the world, from the Arctic to the equator. The species is known for their ability to transmit diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
Some scientists have estimated that there are over one hundred thousand species of flies. These insects are grouped into families and genera based on their habits. Flies in the same family can have similar lifestyles and habits. For example, the bone skipper fly feeds on meat and carcasses that have been picked over during the cold months. This species was thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered a few years ago.
Most fly species spend most of their lives in their larval stage. Adults don’t live very long – a few days or weeks. They are often eaten by predators. As a result, it is not surprising that fly populations are larger in damp places. However, flies don’t stay in the same places for long.
Many types of flies feed on plants and fungi as larvae. Some even lay their eggs in a plant’s stem or leaf. In turn, the larvae secrete chemicals that turn the plant into a gall. These galls protect the larvae and provide a source of food. Another group of flies feed on humans and other vertebrates.