Item ST 23018 Models - House Fly Exhibit, Institute of Applied Science, 1960s

Summary

'The House Fly' exhibit used in the Institute of Applied Science in the 1960s and made by Museum staff. It comprises a fly resting on the lip of a jug (life size), a pile of model fly eggs (30x magnification), and a model of the end of fly's foot (300x magnification). The display also included samples of insecticides and information labels. The original exhibit was dismantled in 1985.

The exhibit drew attention to the public health aspects of house flies, noting its role in spreading diseases such as typhoid, tuberculosis, anthrax and cholera. Exhibit signage stated 'No effort should be spared to eradicate this dangerous insect'. Recommended control methods included covering garbage bins and other waste (to prevent egg-laying and larval development), using wire mesh screens and net covers, and the use of insecticides such as pyrethrin and DDT. DDT has since been banned for most agricultural and domestic purposes in a majority of countries worldwide, due to adverse effects on human health and the environment.

Physical Description

A display set including three main parts: a life-sized fly on the lip of a jug, a model group of fly eggs (30x magnification), a model of the end of a fly's foot (300x magnification).