Flies seen in Kotagiri, Coonoor not the harmful ‘black flies’: researchers
Wildlife biologists in the Nilgiris have clarified that recent swarms of flies in Kotagiri and Coonoor are dark-winged fungus gnats, not the harmful 'black flies' previously reported. These insects are harmless to humans but can be pests in commercial agriculture.
Why it matters
Correct identification of local wildlife prevents public panic and helps focus conservation or pest control efforts appropriately.
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.
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