Final answer:
The "housefly-like bug" in question likely refers to a common dust mite, which is tiny and feeds on organic debris. These mites cannot be fully eradicated with cleaning. Electron microscope images reveal the alien-like appearances of insects we ordinarily view as mundane.
Step-by-step explanation:
The "housefly-like bug" mentioned could refer to various insects, but if we are looking at the magnified image of a microscopic house mite as mentioned in the context, we're actually dealing with a common dust mite. Dust mites are tiny creatures, about a half a millimeter in actual size, and they thrive on organic debris, including human skin flakes. Although they are often associated with cleanliness issues in homes, they cannot be completely eliminated even with frequent and thorough cleaning. These mites are indeed a part of a much larger ecosystem that includes house flies, blow flies, dragonflies, and termites, among many others that dominate life on Earth in sheer numbers.
An interesting facet to consider is that what we perceive as common insects can appear very different under magnification. For example, a black fly imaged by an electron microscope as indicated in FIGURE 29.1 is described as monstrous as any science-fiction creature. Moreover, the pictures of horseflies magnified show their large, colorful eyes, giving us a glimpse into how differently they perceive the world.
In the vast array of insects that dominate our planet, including an extensive list that ranges from pine beetles to mayflies, we are constantly discovering new and fascinating aspects of these creatures, furthering our understanding of the incredibly diverse and complex world of insects that exists right under our noses.