Lady of the Flies

A warm welcome

This week's entomological society talk was by the inspiring Dr. Erica McAlister who is the curator of diptera at the Natural History Museum, London.

Her talk reviews her new book "The secret life of flies" in an extraordinary overview of the diversity of diptera. She passionately explains the fascinating lives of various flies, including witty stories from her career to make this talk a truly enjoyable and informative view into the world of a curator!

Through adversity

Despite their bad rap, flies are fascinating creatures with extensive diversity. It is estimated that there are 400,000-800,000 species of flies in the world, making up 13% of the worlds insect diversity. There are currently 7,093 species of described flies in the UK, and only 5,416 species of mammals in the WORLD!

Yet despite the extraordinary difference in species totals, flies are significantly under represented in science and the media. Part of Dr. McAlister's work involves scientific outreach and sharing her knowledge and experiences with flies throughout her career, to educate people of their incredible diversity and beauty.

Knowledge of flies can help incriminate murderers.

Diversity of Insects, showing Diptera at 13% and Coleoptera making up the bulk of insect diversity

The most adorable flies

The bee fly, Anastoechus nitidulus is described as one of the most adorable flies (especially according to Erica) and I can see why. Its fluffy exterior and likeness to the bumblebee makes this fly the cutest contender and a brilliant example of the diversity of flies, as apposed to being a nuisance, carrier of filthy disease or pests. The bee flies are however important pollinators and contribute to dispersal of various plant species.

Further diversity of flies is greatly explained in detail in Dr. McAlister's book, available on Amazon.

Anastoechus nitidulus, the bee fly feeding on nectar.

Interesting anecdotes

Dr. McAlister recalled an interesting story about the use of flies in solving a mysterious murder by the 'suitcase killer'. Forensic entomology utilises knowledge of arthropod biology to uncover criminal mysteries. In this particular case, they utilised the biology of maggots to determine the time of death for a particular murder to corroborate the alibi of a suspect. In this particular case, the understanding of maggots led to the incrimination of a serial killer.

In 1947 flies were sent to space

Concluding remarks

Overall Dr. McAlister's inspiring talk has taught me about the importance of understanding diversity and the necessity to focus on the little things in life, and in this case diptera! Her insight into the Natural History Museum, London has opened new avenue's for me to explore for future career's and education opportunities. Her global research has also inspired me to explore new areas of the world and to work towards a career where I am able to travel for my research. Getting the chance to meet such a knowledgeable, entertaining and friendly woman of science was truly a treat.

Thank you to Erica for coming up to Bangor University, and Matt Hamer of he Entomology society for arranging this talk.

Bangor Universities Entomological Society Logo