# Flies pollinate crops, control pests and aid scientific research 2026-08-07T06:10:56+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Flies are far more than disease-carrying nuisances, according to Mongabay-India. True flies, or Diptera, have one pair of wings and halteres that help them make rapid, precise movements in flight. Their hairy bodies trap pollen, while their feeding patterns differ from bees. Flies visit flowers across long distances, and a 2019 review found that they pollinated more than 70% of 105 crops studied. Hoverflies and blow flies are among the important non-bee crop visitors. Hoverflies also help farmers by feeding on aphids, whiteflies and other pests during their larval stage. Flies contribute to composting and soil fertility, aid criminal investigations and support research, including studies using fruit flies in spaceflight. ## Coverage - india.mongabay.com Tags: biodiversity, farming, flies, insects, pollination Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/flies-pollinate-crops-control-pests-and-aid-scientific-research/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/flies-pollinate-crops-control-pests-and-aid-scientific-research/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.