Fruit fly larva (Maggot)

Scientific Name: Drosophila melanogaster

Order & Family: Order: Diptera; Family: Drosophilidae

Size: 2.5 mm to 4.5 mm in length depending on the instar stage

Fruit fly larva (Maggot)

Natural Habitat

Typically found near overripe fruits, vegetables, and decaying organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on yeast, bacteria, and sugar within fermenting or decaying organic material.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae pass through three instar stages, constantly feeding and burrowing into food sources before seeking a dry spot to pupate.

Risks & Benefits

They are nuisance pests in homes and can spoil food; however, they are invaluable to science as genetic research models and act as decomposers in nature.

Identified on: 3/18/2026