Flies, also known as flys, are a common insect found all over the world. They belong to the order Diptera, which means “two-winged” in Greek. There are over 120,000 species of flies, and they come in many different shapes and sizes. Some are tiny, while others are large and colorful.
Flies are often associated with dirt and disease, but they actually play an important role in our ecosystem. They help to pollinate plants and are an important food source for many animals, including birds and fish. However, they can also be a nuisance to humans, particularly when they swarm around food or land on people.
So, what are the differences between flies and flys? Is one spelling correct and the other not? In fact, both spellings are correct, but they are used in different contexts. “Fly” is the most common spelling and is used to refer to the insect. “Flys” is a less common spelling, but it can be used as a verb in phrases such as “the bird flys to its nest.”
Let’s take a closer look at these fascinating creatures.
Physical Characteristics
As mentioned earlier, flies come in many different shapes and sizes. Most have a compact, oval-shaped body with two wings. They also have large, compound eyes that cover most of their head. These eyes are made up of thousands of individual lenses, giving flies a wide field of vision. Flies also have antennae, which they use to sense their environment.
One of the most distinctive characteristics of flies is their ability to fly. They have two wings that beat rapidly, allowing them to hover in place or move quickly. They can also change direction quickly and fly backwards or sideways. Some species of flies can even fly upside down.
Behavior
Flies are known for their annoying behavior, especially when they swarm around food or land on people. But what causes this behavior? Flies are attracted to certain smells and tastes, particularly those associated with decaying organic matter. This is why they are often found near trash cans, compost piles, and animal feces.
Flies also have a sweet tooth. They are attracted to sugary substances, such as fruit juice and soda. They are also drawn to the smell of flowers, especially those that produce a lot of nectar.
In addition to their feeding habits, flies are also known for their breeding habits. Female flies lay their eggs on decaying organic matter, such as animal feces or rotting fruit. The eggs hatch into maggots, which feed on the organic matter until they develop into flies.
Ecological Role
Despite their annoying behavior, flies play an important ecological role. They are important pollinators, particularly for plants that produce small flowers. Flies also serve as an important food source for many animals, including birds, fish, and other insects.
However, flies can also be a source of disease. They can carry bacteria and viruses on their bodies, transferring them from one surface to another as they land. This is why it is important to keep food covered and to clean up spills and crumbs promptly.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about flies:
Q: What is the lifespan of a fly?
A: The lifespan of a fly varies depending on the species, but most adult flies live for only a few weeks.
Q: What is the difference between a fruit fly and a house fly?
A: Fruit flies are smaller and more slender than house flies. They are usually tan or light brown in color and have distinctive red eyes. Fruit flies are attracted to sweet, fruity smells and are often found near overripe fruit. House flies are larger and have a more robust body. They are usually gray or black in color and are attracted to decaying organic matter, such as animal feces and rotting food.
Q: Can flies bite humans?
A: Some species of flies, such as horse flies and deer flies, can bite humans. These bites can be painful and may cause itching or swelling.
Q: How can I get rid of flies in my home?
A: To get rid of flies in your home, make sure all food is covered and all spills and crumbs are cleaned up promptly. You can also use fly traps or fly swatters to remove individual flies. Fly repellents, such as essential oils or citronella candles, may also be effective.
Conclusion
Flies are fascinating creatures that play an important role in our ecosystem. While they can be a nuisance to humans, they are an important food source for many animals and help to pollinate plants. By understanding their behavior and biology, we can better appreciate the vital role that flies play in our world.