Fruit Fly

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in association with human habitats, particularly kitchens, grocery stores, and gardens.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae and adults feed on rotting or fermenting fruits and vegetables, as well as the yeast and bacteria growing on decaying organic matter.

Behavior Patterns

They are highly attracted to the smell of fermentation; they have a very rapid life cycle and can go from egg to adult in about 8 to 10 days.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest that can contaminate food with bacteria; however, they are invaluable model organisms in biological and genetic research.

Identified on: 3/16/2026