/ɡɹˈiːn bˈɑːɾəl flˈaɪ/
a metallic-colored insect that is attracted to decaying organic matter and plays a role in decomposition
A green bottle fly, also known as the blowfly, is a common insect characterized by its metallic green or blue coloration. It is attracted to decaying organic matter and plays a significant role in decomposition. Green bottle flies are often found near garbage, animal carcasses, and other sources of rotting material. They have a relatively short lifespan and are known for their rapid reproductive cycle. Despite being considered a nuisance, they also serve as a food source for other organisms, contributing to the natural balance of ecosystems.
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/ɡˈoʊldənˈaɪd flˈaɪ/
a small insect with distinctive golden-colored eyes known for its unique eye structure and behavior
A golden-eyed fly is a small insect with distinctive golden-colored eyes that belongs to the family Diopsidae. These flies are known for their unique eye structure and behavior. They have elongated, tube-like projections on their heads that house their large, bulbous eyes. The golden-eyed fly is often found in wooded areas or near water sources. The adults feed on nectar and pollen, playing a role in pollination. They are also known for their elaborate courtship displays, with males performing intricate dances to attract females. Despite their striking appearance, not much is known about the biology and ecology of golden-eyed flies, making them a subject of ongoing research and fascination among entomologists.
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/fɹˈuːt flˈaɪ/
a small insect commonly found near ripe or decaying fruits and vegetables
A fruit fly, also known as Drosophila, is a small insect that belongs to the family Drosophilidae. It is commonly found around ripe or decaying fruits and vegetables. Fruit flies have a short lifespan and reproduce quickly, making them a common nuisance in homes and commercial spaces. They are known for their ability to infest and spoil fruits, making them a concern in agriculture and food storage.
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/skˈoːɹpiən flˈaɪ/
a small insect with a scorpion-like tail and elongated mouthparts, known for its unique mating behavior and scavenging habits
A scorpion fly is a small insect of the order Mecoptera, known for its distinctive scorpion-like tail and elongated mouthparts. They are typically found in forested areas and have a unique mating behavior where the male presents a prey item to the female as a courtship gift. Scorpion flies play a role in pollination and are primarily scavengers, feeding on dead insects and decaying organic matter. Despite their name and appearance, scorpion flies are harmless and do not possess a venomous sting.
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/sˈænd flˈaɪ/
a small insect that is often found in sandy areas and can transmit diseases to humans and animals through its biting behavior
A sand fly is a tiny insect belonging to the family Psychodidae, known for its preference for sandy habitats and its role as a vector for various diseases, including Leishmaniasis and sandfly fever. Despite their small size, sand flies can cause significant discomfort and health issues to humans and animals through their biting and blood-feeding activities.
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/sˈɔːflaɪ/
an insect resembling a wasp or bee but lacking a stinger
A sawfly is a type of flying insect that resembles a wasp or bee but lacks a stinger, with females having a saw-like ovipositor used for laying eggs on plants. They are known for their plant-feeding habits and can cause damage to various vegetation, making them a significant concern for gardeners and farmers. Sawflies undergo complete metamorphosis, with larvae resembling caterpillars and feeding on leaves, while adults primarily feed on nectar and pollen. Despite their name and appearance, sawflies are not closely related to true flies and belong to their own distinct insect group.
/tsˈɛtsi flˈaɪ/
a blood-sucking insect found in sub-Saharan Africa that transmits the parasite responsible for sleeping sickness
A tsetse fly is a biting insect found in sub-Saharan Africa that feeds on the blood of vertebrate animals, including humans. It is known for transmitting the parasite that causes sleeping sickness, a potentially fatal disease that affects both humans and animals. Tsetse flies are characterized by their large size, long proboscis, and prominent eyes, and they are commonly found in rural areas near rivers, lakes, and forests. The female tsetse fly is responsible for transmitting the disease, while the males primarily feed on plant nectar.
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a large biting fly that annoys and harasses animals, often provoking them to move or react through its persistent biting
A gadfly is a flying insect, typically a type of horsefly or botfly, known for its persistent biting and annoyance to animals, including livestock. It is characterized by its large size, sharp mouthparts, and buzzing flight. The gadfly is known for its ability to provoke animals to move or act through its persistent biting, which often results in discomfort and irritation.
/hˈɔːɹsflaɪ/
a large fly characterized by its strong bite and preference for feeding on the blood of mammals
A horsefly is a large, robust fly known for its painful bite and buzzing sound. It is typically found near bodies of water and in rural areas. The female horsefly feeds on the blood of mammals, including horses, cattle, and humans, while the male primarily feeds on nectar. They are known for their agility and can be a nuisance to both humans and animals, often causing discomfort and irritation.
/ˈɔːldɚflˌaɪ/
an insect with an elongated body, lace-like wings, and long mouthparts
An alderfly is an insect belonging to the order Megaloptera. It is typically found near freshwater habitats such as rivers and streams. The alderfly has an elongated body, slender antennae, and large wings with a lace-like appearance. It is known for its distinctive long, filamentous mouthparts that it uses to feed on nectar and other plant fluids. The alderfly larvae are aquatic and live in the water, where they prey on small invertebrates. This insect plays a role in freshwater ecosystems as both a predator and an indicator of water quality.
/bˈiː flˈaɪ/
a type of fly that resembles a bee in appearance, often with a robust body, furry appearance, and long proboscis
A bee fly is an insect that mimics the appearance of a bee with its robust body and fuzzy texture. Despite its deceptive appearance, it is actually a type of fly. Bee flies have a long proboscis, or mouthpart, which they use to feed on nectar from flowers. They are important pollinators, visiting various flowering plants and transferring pollen from one flower to another. Unlike bees, bee flies do not have a stinger and are harmless to humans. These fascinating insects play a role in ecosystem dynamics by contributing to pollination and serving as a food source for other organisms.
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a parasitic insect that lays its eggs on the skin of mammals
A botfly is a unique and intriguing insect known for its parasitic lifestyle. It belongs to the family Oestridae and is characterized by its robust body and hairy appearance. The female botfly lays its eggs on the skin of mammals, including humans, through various vectors such as mosquitoes or ticks. Once the eggs come into contact with a host, they hatch, and the larvae burrow into the host's skin to develop. The larvae feed on the host's tissue, causing painful swellings or lesions. After a period of development, the fully grown larvae emerge from the host to complete their life cycle. While the presence of botflies can be discomforting and sometimes even harmful, they play a role in the ecosystem as natural parasites, regulating populations of other organisms and contributing to the overall balance of nature.
/blˈoʊflaɪ/
a type of fly characterized by its metallic coloration and its propensity for laying eggs on decaying organic matter
A blowfly is a common insect known for its metallic blue or green coloration and its association with decaying organic matter. It plays a crucial role in the decomposition process by laying eggs on carrion, feces, or other decaying materials. The larvae, commonly referred to as maggots, hatch from the eggs and feed on the organic matter, helping to break it down. Blowflies are often attracted to open wounds on animals and can also be a nuisance in homes and food preparation areas.
/kˈædɪs flˈaɪ/
a small, moth-like insect with a protective case during its larval stage
A caddisfly is a small, moth-like insect with a slender body and long antennae, often found near freshwater habitats. It gets its name from the protective case, made of materials like plant fragments or small stones, that it constructs during its larval stage. The caddisfly larvae are aquatic and use their cases as a means of camouflage and protection. Once they reach adulthood, caddisflies have short lifespans and are primarily active during the evening. They are important indicators of water quality and play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems as both prey and predators.
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/tʃˈælsɪdflˌaɪ/
a small insect belonging to the family Chalcididae, often characterized by its parasitic nature
A chalcidfly is a tiny insect belonging to the family Chalcididae, known for its delicate appearance and diverse species. These flies are often parasitic, laying their eggs inside the eggs or larvae of other insects, and their presence can have both beneficial and detrimental effects in various ecosystems. Chalcidflies play important roles in pest control, as they help control populations of agricultural pests, but some species can also be harmful to crops and stored products. Despite their small size, chalcidflies exhibit remarkable adaptations and behaviors that contribute to their ecological significance.
/sˈɪtɹəs wˈaɪtflaɪ/
a small insect that infests citrus trees and other plants, feeding on sap and causing damage
A citrus whitefly is a small insect that infests citrus trees and other plants, feeding on their sap and causing damage to the leaves and fruit. It is named for its pale, white-colored wings and body, and it can be a significant pest in citrus-growing regions, affecting the overall health and productivity of the trees. Control measures are often employed to manage citrus whitefly populations and minimize their negative impact on citrus crops.
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/dˈeɪflaɪ/
an insect that has a short adult lifespan, typically lasting only a day or two
A dayfly, also known as the mayfly, is an insect that is known for its short adult lifespan, often lasting only a day or two. They are characterized by their delicate wings and their appearance in large swarms near bodies of water. Despite their brief life as adults, mayflies spend a significant portion of their life cycle as aquatic nymphs before emerging as adults to reproduce. They play an important role in freshwater ecosystems, serving as a food source for various organisms and contributing to nutrient cycling.
/dˈɑːbsənflˌaɪ/
a large insect with long mandibles and prominent wings, typically found near bodies of water
A dobsonfly is a large insect with distinctive long mandibles, prominent wings, and a generally ferocious appearance. The males have longer mandibles than the females, which they use for combat and courtship displays. Despite their intimidating appearance, dobsonflies are not aggressive towards humans and are primarily attracted to bodies of water, where their larvae develop. They are commonly found near streams and rivers, and their presence serves as an indicator of good water quality.
/dɹˈaɪ flˈaɪ/
a fly used in fly fishing that mimics insects floating on the water's surface, designed to entice fish
A dry fly is a type of fishing fly designed to imitate insects that land or float on the water's surface. It is typically made with buoyant materials and does not sink, allowing anglers to fish it on or near the water's surface to attract fish that feed on insects floating on the surface. Dry flies are commonly used in fly fishing to target species such as trout and other freshwater fish that feed on surface insects. The design and appearance of dry flies vary to mimic different types of insects, making them an effective tool for enticing fish to strike.
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/flˈɛʃ flˈaɪ/
a fly species known for its grayish or blackish appearance, distinctive thorax pattern, and habit of laying eggs in decaying organic matter
A flesh fly, known scientifically as Sarcophaga, is a species of fly characterized by its grayish or blackish color and distinct pattern of three dark stripes on its thorax. They are called flesh flies due to their habit of laying their eggs in decaying organic matter, including carrion, feces, and open wounds. The larvae of flesh flies are known as maggots and play a crucial role in decomposing dead organisms. While they may be considered a nuisance in some situations, flesh flies also serve as important scavengers in ecosystems, aiding in the recycling of nutrients.
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/fˈɪʃflˈaɪ/
an aquatic insect with delicate wings and a short adult lifespan, known for its role as a food source
A fish-fly, also known as a mayfly, is an aquatic insect belonging to the order Ephemeroptera. It is characterized by its delicate wings, elongated body, and long tail. The fish-fly undergoes a fascinating life cycle, spending most of its life as an aquatic nymph before emerging as a winged adult. The adult fish-fly has a short lifespan, typically only a few days, during which its main goal is to mate and reproduce. It is often found near bodies of water, where it lays its eggs. The fish-fly plays an important ecological role as a food source for other animals, and its emergence is often associated with the arrival of spring or summer.
/lˈæntɚn flˈaɪ/
an insect with vibrant, lantern-like wings, found in tropical and subtropical regions and feeds on plant sap
A lantern fly, also known as lanternfly or planthopper, is a striking insect characterized by its brightly colored wings and long, slender body. It derives its name from the lantern-like appearance of its wings, which feature vibrant patterns and colors. The lantern fly is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, where it feeds on plant sap using its piercing mouthparts. While some species of lantern flies are harmless, others can cause damage to crops and plants. Overall, the lantern fly is a visually captivating insect that plays a role in both natural ecosystems and agricultural landscapes.
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/ˈɪknuːmən flˈaɪ/
a parasitic insect with a long, slender body and elongated ovipositor, used to lay eggs inside other insects or arthropods
An ichneumon fly is a parasitic insect known for its long, slender body and elongated ovipositor, which it uses to inject eggs into the bodies of other insects or arthropods. It is commonly found in various habitats worldwide and plays a crucial role in controlling populations of other insects by parasitizing their larvae or pupae. The ichneumon fly is an important natural enemy of many pest species, making it beneficial to ecosystems and agriculture.
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/hjˈuːmən bˈɑːtflaɪ/
a parasitic insect that lays eggs on mosquitoes or other insects, which then hatch into larvae that burrow into the skin of humans and other mammals
A human botfly is a parasitic insect that infests humans and other mammals. The adult female botfly lays eggs on mosquitoes or other biting insects, which then transmit the eggs to a host when they bite. The eggs hatch into larvae that burrow into the host's skin, causing painful and itchy lesions. The botfly larvae develop within the host's tissue until they eventually emerge as fully-grown flies. Human botfly infestations are typically found in tropical regions and can be treated by removing the larvae surgically or through natural means.
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/hˈaʊsflaɪ/
a small, grayish-black insect known for its rapid flight, buzzing sound, and ability to transmit diseases by contaminating food and surfaces
A housefly, scientifically known as Musca domestica, is a common insect that is often found in and around human habitations. It is characterized by its small size, usually measuring around 6 to 7 millimeters in length and its grayish-black color. Houseflies are known for their rapid flight and buzzing sound. They have compound eyes, mouthparts for feeding on liquid substances, and two pairs of wings. Houseflies are notorious pests and can transmit various diseases by contaminating food and surfaces with their saliva and feces. They are attracted to decaying organic matter and can reproduce quickly, making them a nuisance in many households.
/hˈɔːɹn flˈaɪ/
a small, blood-sucking fly that infests cattle and can cause irritation
A horn fly is a small, blood-sucking fly that primarily infests cattle and causes irritation and economic losses to the livestock industry. It has a distinct horn-like projection on its head and feeds on the blood of its host, leading to reduced weight gain, decreased milk production, and potential skin lesions. Control measures are often implemented to manage horn fly populations and minimize their negative impact on cattle health and productivity.
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/hˈɔːɹs bˈɑːtflaɪ/
a parasitic insect that lays its eggs on horses, and the larvae
A horse botfly is a species of fly that specifically targets horses as its host. Adult female botflies lay their eggs on the horse's coat, which the horse then ingests while grooming. The eggs hatch inside the horse's mouth and the larvae migrate to the stomach and intestines, where they attach themselves to the lining and feed on the horse's tissues and fluids. This parasitic infestation can lead to digestive disturbances, discomfort, and in severe cases, even colic. The larvae eventually pass out of the horse's body and pupate in the soil before emerging as adult botflies to continue the life cycle.
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/hˌɛmɚɹˈoʊbɪˌɪd flˈaɪ/
an insect with delicate, lacy wings that preys on small insects and serves as a beneficial predator in pest control
A hemerobiid fly, commonly known as the lacewing fly, is a delicate insect belonging to the family Hemerobiidae. These flies are characterized by their lacy wings, slender bodies, and prominent eyes. Lacewing flies are beneficial predators in the ecosystem, as both larvae and adults feed on small insects such as aphids, mites, and other soft-bodied pests. The larvae, commonly called "aphid lions," are voracious predators that actively hunt and consume their prey. They are known for their long, curved mandibles and camouflage adaptations that help them blend into their surroundings. Lacewing flies play an essential role in natural pest control, making them valuable allies in agriculture and garden ecosystems.
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/hˈɛʃən flˈaɪ/
a destructive insect pest that infests cereal crops, particularly wheat, and causes significant damage
A hessian fly is a destructive insect pest that infests cereal crops, particularly wheat, by feeding on the plant's sap and causing significant damage. It is named after its resemblance to the color and texture of hessian cloth. The hessian fly poses a serious threat to agricultural production and requires careful monitoring and management to minimize its impact on crop yields.
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/hˈɑːɹvɪst flˈaɪ/
a winged insect that emerges during the warm summer months and is known for its loud buzzing calls
A harvest fly, also known as the cicada, is a unique insect characterized by its loud buzzing sound and striking appearance. These insects are known for their distinct life cycle, spending most of their lives underground as nymphs before emerging as adults. The adult harvest fly is recognized for its large, transparent wings and vibrant colors. They are often associated with warm summer months when their characteristic buzzing fills the air. The male cicadas produce loud calls to attract females, creating a chorus of sound in trees and bushes. While harmless to humans, the presence of harvest flies can be a sign of the changing seasons and the familiar sound of summer.
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a flying insect that bites people and animals and feeds on their blood
A mosquito is a small flying insect known for its annoying bites and ability to transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. Found in various habitats around the world, female mosquitoes require blood meals to reproduce, while males primarily feed on plant nectar. Their buzzing sound and itchy bites make them a nuisance to humans, and their role as disease vectors poses a significant health risk.
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/mælˈɛɹiə məskˈiːɾoʊ/
a species of mosquito that transmits the malaria parasite and is responsible for the spread of malaria in humans
A malaria mosquito is a tiny insect that plays a significant role in the transmission of malaria, a life-threatening disease. Female malaria mosquitoes feed on the blood of humans, and in the process, they can transmit the malaria parasite. These mosquitoes are most active during the evening and nighttime, posing a significant health risk in regions where malaria is prevalent. Preventive measures such as bed nets, insecticides, and proper sanitation are crucial in combating the spread of malaria by these mosquitoes.
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/kˈɑːmən məskˈiːɾoʊ/
a small insect known for its ability to bite humans and animals and is a carrier of diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever
A common mosquito is a small insect known for its ability to bite humans and animals. It belongs to the Culicidae family and is found worldwide, inhabiting various environments, including urban areas, forests, and wetlands. Mosquitoes are known to be carriers of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus, making them a significant public health concern. These pests have a distinct elongated body, long legs, and slender wings, with females typically feeding on blood for reproduction. Despite their tiny size, mosquitoes can be a nuisance, causing discomfort with their buzzing sound and itchy bites.
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/ˈeɪʒən tˈaɪɡɚ məskˈiːɾoʊ/
a small, invasive insect with black and white stripes belonging to the Culicidae family
An Asian tiger mosquito, scientifically known as Aedes albopictus, is a small, black-and-white-striped insect that belongs to the Culicidae family. Originally native to Southeast Asia, it has become a widespread invasive species in many parts of the world. The Asian tiger mosquito is recognized for its aggressive biting behavior, especially during daylight hours, and its ability to transmit diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus. It is characterized by its distinctive black-and-white pattern on its body and legs, which sets it apart from other mosquito species. This adaptable mosquito species can thrive in a variety of environments, including urban areas, and is known to breed in small containers of water, making it a significant concern for public health.
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a small flying insect that has two wings
A fly is a small insect belonging to the order Diptera, characterized by a single pair of wings. With a diverse range of species, flies can be found in various habitats worldwide. They are known for their ability to fly swiftly and maneuver skillfully in the air. Flies have compound eyes, a pair of antennae, and mouthparts adapted for feeding on liquids or solids. Some species, like house flies, are considered pests as they can transmit diseases by landing on surfaces and food. Flies play important ecological roles as decomposers, aiding in the breakdown of organic matter. Despite being commonly associated with annoyance, flies have fascinating adaptations and are an integral part of many ecosystems.
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/spˈænɪʃ flˈaɪ/
an emerald green beetle found in Southern Europe that produces a toxic agent formerly considered to be an aphrodisiac
A Spanish fly, also known as Lytta vesicatoria, is not actually a fly but a species of beetle belonging to the family Meloidae. It has gained a reputation due to its historical use in traditional medicine and folklore as an aphrodisiac. However, it is important to note that the Spanish fly is highly toxic and can cause severe health complications if ingested. The beetle produces a chemical called cantharidin, which can irritate and blister the skin and mucous membranes. In large doses, cantharidin can lead to serious medical emergencies. Due to its potential dangers and lack of efficacy as an aphrodisiac, the use of Spanish fly is strongly discouraged and is considered illegal in many countries.
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/wˈɔːɾɚ bˈʌɡ/
an aquatic insect adapted to living in freshwater habitats, often possessing elongated bodies
A water bug is a type of aquatic insect that belongs to various families, such as the Corixidae or Belostomatidae. It is adapted for life in freshwater habitats, such as ponds, lakes, and streams. Water bugs have elongated bodies and legs, which enable them to swim efficiently. They possess specialized adaptations for capturing and feeding small aquatic organisms. Some species of water bugs, like the giant water bug, can grow to impressive sizes. While most water bugs are harmless to humans, some larger species are capable of delivering painful bites if handled or disturbed. Overall, water bugs play important roles in aquatic ecosystems, serving as predators and contributing to the balance of the ecosystem they inhabit.
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a very small dipteran fly that lives in swarms near water and bites animals or humans
A midge is a small flying insect belonging to the family Chironomidae. It is characterized by its delicate appearance and slender body. Midges are typically found near bodies of water, such as lakes, ponds, and rivers, as their larvae develop in aquatic environments. These insects are known for their swarming behavior, especially during dusk and dawn. While midges are often considered a nuisance due to their presence in large numbers, they do not pose significant threats to humans. They play essential roles in ecosystems as a food source for various animals and contribute to the pollination of certain plants.
/dˈædi lˈɑːŋɡlɛɡz/
long-legged slender flies that resemble large mosquitoes but do not bite
A daddy longlegs, also known as a crane fly, is a slender insect that resembles large mosquitoes but is not closely related. They have long legs and wings and are often seen flying around in grassy areas. Unlike mosquitoes, crane flies do not bite or feed on blood. They primarily feed on nectar and other plant materials. Despite their similar appearance, it's important to differentiate between the two organisms when referring to "daddy longlegs."
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a flying insect with a soft body and a tail that shines in the dark
A firefly is a small insect that belongs to the Lampyridae family. It is renowned for its bioluminescent ability, which allows it to produce flashes of light. Fireflies use these flashes as a means of communication, attracting mates, and deterring predators. They are most commonly found in warm and humid environments, such as forests, meadows, and gardens. Fireflies undergo a fascinating life cycle, starting as larvae that emit a dim glow and eventually transforming into adults capable of producing bright flashes. The enchanting sight of fireflies lighting up the night sky has captivated human fascination for centuries. Their presence adds a magical touch to summer evenings and serves as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
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/ɡɹˈiːnflaɪ/
a small green aphid that infests gardens and crops
A greenfly is a small insect belonging to the superfamily Aphidoidea. It is characterized by its soft body and sucking mouthparts, which it uses to extract sap from plants. Greenflies are typically found in large numbers on the stems, leaves, and buds of various plants. They reproduce rapidly, giving rise to colonies that can cause damage to crops and ornamental plants by depleting their resources and spreading diseases. Greenflies come in different colors, including green, yellow, and black. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract other insects like ants. While greenflies are considered pests in agriculture and gardening, they also serve as a food source for beneficial insects and can contribute to ecological balance.
/lˈeɪsuːɪŋ/
any slender insect of the Neuroptera order that has clear net wings, the larvae of which kill pests
A lacewing is a delicate insect belonging to the family Chrysopidae. It is named for its intricate, lace-like wings. Lacewings are beneficial predators, primarily targeting aphids and other small insects as their prey. They have long, slender bodies and large, prominent eyes. Lacewing larvae, often referred to as aphid lions, are voracious predators that use their sickle-shaped jaws to capture and feed on aphids and other soft-bodied insects. Adult lacewings, on the other hand, primarily feed on nectar and pollen. They are commonly found in gardens, meadows, and other habitats with ample vegetation. Due to their natural pest control capabilities, lacewings are valued by gardeners and farmers as a means of organic pest management.
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