How Many Flies Are Left in the World?
WouterThere are currently around 120,000 species of flies known to science. But the number is likely much larger. These insects are grouped into families and genera, and many share similar lifestyles and habits. They are found in all kinds of environments, from the Arctic to the equator.
The number of flies in the world is constantly increasing. In fact, the current population of flies is estimated at 17 quadrillion. The vast majority are invisible and unnoticed. They feed on dead organic matter and may even regularly feast on human sweat, as the flies need the protein for their eggs.
The lifespan of flies varies widely, but most have a short lifespan of about 15-25 days. Adults of fruit flies and house flies can lay up to 500 eggs in their lifetime. Most flies overwinter as larvae or pupae, although some may hibernate in warm places during the winter.
Another important role played by flies is to pollinate other plants and trees. Flies pollinate more than 100 crops, including fruits and vegetables. They also pollinate plants like onions, black pepper, coriander, and carrots. In fact, they are responsible for pollinating more than a third of the world’s cultivated crops.
While most flies feed on plant and fungi, some species feed on human food, including grass. Flies can also “spit on” dry food, sucking up extra nutrients. This means that some types of flies can contaminate food. In some cases, they can also cause disease. Fortunately, most species of flies are beneficial to the environment, as they help pollinate flowers and control the populations of other small animals.
