Fruit fly pupa

Scientific Name: Drosophila melanogaster

Order & Family: Order: Diptera; Family: Drosophilidae

Size: 3 mm to 4 mm in length

Fruit fly pupa

Natural Habitat

Typically found near fermenting organic matter, such as ripening fruits and vegetables, and in compost bins or trash cans.

Diet & Feeding

In the larval stage, they consume yeast and bacteria found in rotting or fermenting organic material; pupae do not eat.

Behavior Patterns

The pupa is a stationary life stage during which the insect transforms from a larva into an adult fly; this stage lasts about 4–5 days at room temperature.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest in homes; they do not bite, but can potentially spread bacteria from contaminated surfaces to food.

Identified on: 1/11/2026