Fruit Fly Larva
Scientific Name: Drosophila melanogaster
Order & Family: Diptera: Drosophilidae
Size: 3 mm to 5 mm (approx. 0.12 to 0.20 inches) at full larval maturity.
Natural Habitat
Found near decaying organic matter, overripe fruit, drains, and damp kitchen areas.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on yeast, bacteria, and sugar within fermenting or decaying fruits and vegetables.
Behavior Patterns
The larva (maggot) spends its time tunneling through food sources to feed; it undergoes several molts before crawling to a dry area to pupate.
Risks & Benefits
Risk: Can contaminate food with bacteria (though generally not dangerous). Benefit: Key model organism in biological and genetic research.
Identified on: 1/6/2026