Often overlooked as mere pests, flies are some of the Earth’s most prolific pollinators, second only to bees. However, new research led by Penn State scientists reveals that rising global temperatures could pose a significant threat to flies, potentially disrupting ecosystems and agriculture worldwide.
Bees have long been celebrated for their role in pollination, but flies also play a crucial part in maintaining biodiversity and crop production. From cocoa trees that provide chocolate to wildflowers in diverse ecosystems, flies contribute to the reproduction of countless plant species. Despite this service, their importance as pollinators often goes unrecognized.
A 2020 global analysis estimated that 105 crops reliant on pollinators, including flies, have a combined economic value exceeding $800 billion. However, flies face the same risks as bees, including habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change.
The study, published in the Journal of Melittology, examined the heat tolerance of various species of bees and flies across tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. Researchers measured the “critical thermal maximum” (CTMax) for these species—the highest temperature they can endure before becoming immobile.
The study concluded that bees tolerate temperatures 2.3°C higher than flies on average. Flies in cooler, high-altitude environments, such as Cajicá, Colombia, are especially vulnerable to even slight temperature increases. Bees showed varying heat tolerance depending on the time of day, with morning foragers exhibiting higher CTMax than those active in the afternoon.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, international students from Penn State and other universities conducted field research in their home countries. Using equipment sent to them, students collected data on bees and flies’ thermal tolerance in diverse habitats across the Americas.
By studying insects in kitchens and makeshift labs, the team measured the temperatures at which bees and flies lost mobility. This innovative approach enabled researchers to compare heat tolerance across species and regions despite global travel restrictions.
The findings highlight the vulnerability of flies, particularly in alpine and subarctic regions where they are the primary pollinators. As global temperatures rise, ecosystems in these regions face the risk of losing their primary pollinators, which could disrupt food chains and biodiversity.
“Insects are vital for pollinating both wild and agricultural plants,” said Margarita López-Uribe, lead author and professor of entomology at Penn State. “Losing flies in regions where they dominate could be catastrophic for local ecosystems and food production.”
The study opens doors for further research into how climate change affects pollinator species. Protecting flies and their habitats is crucial to preserving biodiversity and ensuring agricultural productivity. Future efforts could include:
- Monitoring heat tolerance in additional pollinator species.
- Developing conservation strategies for vulnerable insects.
- Raising awareness of flies’ contributions to ecosystems and agriculture.
Flies are unsung heroes of pollination, essential to both biodiversity and food production. As global temperatures rise, safeguarding these insects becomes critical to protecting ecosystems and securing agricultural resources.
For more details, explore the full study in the Journal of Melittology.
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