Yes, flies are attracted to human sperm. Specifically, human semen, especially dried semen, is a highly attractive food source for flies.
Why Flies are Attracted to Semen
The primary reason flies are attracted to semen is its nutritional content. Semen contains proteins, sugars, and other nutrients that flies need to survive and reproduce.
Dried Semen: An Extra Allurement
- The reference states that dried semen is a particular favorite of flies. This may be because the drying process concentrates the nutrients and makes it easier for flies to access.
- The texture of dried semen might also be more palatable to flies than liquid semen.
How Flies Interact with Semen
Once flies find a source of semen, they will feed on it until it's depleted.
- According to the reference, flies will consume semen to the point of death if enough is available. This highlights how appealing it is as a food source for them.
Implications
The fact that flies are attracted to semen has several implications:
- Forensic Science: In crime scenes, flies can transfer bodily fluids such as blood and semen via their fecal matter or vomit.
- Public Health: Flies can spread pathogens, and their attraction to human fluids is a factor in understanding disease transmission routes.
Flies and Blood
While semen is more attractive to flies, they will also feed on blood:
- The reference clarifies that while blood is a viable food source for flies, it is less desirable than semen.
- Flies can still carry blood from one location to another.
Table Summary: Fly Attraction
Attractant | Preference | Notes |
---|---|---|
Human Semen | High | Especially dried semen; flies may feed until death if abundant. |
Human Blood | Lower | Still a viable food source but less appealing than semen. |