Bug Identifier
Fruit fly
Community identification

Fruit fly

Drosophila melanogaster

Order & Family
Order: Diptera, Family: Drosophilidae
Size
3 to 4 millimeters in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found near decaying organic matter, overripe fruit, and damp areas indoors and outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on yeasts and bacteria associated with fermenting fruit and decaying plant material.

Behavior Patterns

Exhibits rapid flight patterns and high reproductive rates, laying eggs directly on moist organic surfaces.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or transmit diseases, but they can contaminate food and become a severe household nuisance.