Fruit fly

Typically found in kitchens near overripe produce, gardens, or composting areas.

Mainly feeds on yeast from fermenting and decaying organic matter such as fruits and vegetables.

They have a very fast life cycle, completing development from egg to adult in about 10 days. They are most active during the day and are attracted to the smell of fermentation.

While they do not bite and are generally harmless, they can contaminate food with bacteria and pathogens. In controlled environments, they are a vital model organism for genetic and biomedical research.