With the arrival of warmer weather, flies are once again making their presence known. This year, there has been an abundance of bush flies, house flies, blowflies, horseflies, and mosquitoes in Australia. While flies can be a nuisance, it is important to appreciate their diversity and the roles they play in our ecosystem.
Bush flies, known for lingering around our heads and faces, are harmless and pose no serious threat. House flies, on the other hand, are more interested in food scraps and can be a minor hygiene concern. Blowflies, with their shiny bodies, are both pests and effective pollinators. Horseflies, despite their annoying bites, are excellent pollinators as well. Mosquitoes, a type of fly, are not only bothersome but also serve as vectors for diseases such as malaria, Ross River Virus, chikungunya, zika, and dengue.
To deter flies without harming them or beneficial insects, it is recommended to use topical repellents containing DEET or Picaridin and wear loose-fitting clothing when outside. Installing flyscreens in the house and covering food can also help prevent fly infestations. Avoid using bug-bombs and sprays that harm beneficial insects, and opt for selective sprays if necessary. Noise-emitting or smelly gadgets are generally ineffective and can harm unintended targets.
Despite the annoyance they may cause, flies are crucial for the healthy function of ecosystems. Many flies, like hover flies, are important pollinators, supporting agricultural production and plant life. Flies such as black soldier flies are excellent decomposers and can contribute to sustainable waste management. Some flies also serve as biological controls by parasitizing other insects.
Flies have proven valuable in various fields such as forensics, medicine, scientific research, and environmental monitoring. As the warm weather approaches, it is worth appreciating the diversity of flies and the important roles they play in our world. Without them, the natural world would not be the same.