Flies infesting Kotagiri, Coonoor not the harmful ‘black flies’: researchers
Wildlife biologists have identified that recent fly swarms in Kotagiri and Coonoor are dark-winged fungus gnats rather than the harmful 'black flies' previously feared. Researchers confirmed these insects are harmless to humans, though they can be pests for commercial mushroom and seedling farms.
Why it matters
Correct identification of insect species prevents public panic and ensures that agricultural pest control efforts are appropriately targeted.
A team of wildlife biologists investigated recent reports of flies swarming parts of Kotagiri and Coonoor towns in The Nilgiris, to ascertain if the flies seen in the areas were harmful to humans. The researchers have concluded that the flies belong to a family known as Sciaridae , commonly known as dark-winged fungus gnats, and do not pose a threat to human health.
Speaking to The Hindu , N. Moinudheen, an independent wildlife biologist working in The Nilgiris said media reports had incorrectly identified the flies in Kotagiri and Coonoor as “black flies” or buffalo gnats, which are known to negatively impact human health in certain parts of the world.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in