The Secret Life of Flies

Although some people may think of flies as bothersome, McAlister (Natural History Museum, London) dispels this and other popular misconceptions to describe the necessary benefits of flies. Each chapter explains a different type of fly, such as pollinators, detritivores, vegetarians, and fungivores, and their unique characteristics. For example, in the chapter on predators, the author describes how glassworms, the phantom midges' larvae, can be found at the bottom of lakes. They change their antennae to be prehensile to assist in capturing prey. There are also intriguing facts about other flies, including mosquitoes, the hairy fly, fruit flies, and bluebottles. McAlister tells entertaining stories of her research in Peru, England, and Ethiopia to keep readers fascinated with the topic. She also includes a healthy list of authoritative sources. Her writing is clear and accessible, successfully illustrating that flies are important and essential for a healthy ecosystem. Color photographs, sometimes full-page, complement the text throughout.