Fruit fly

Natural Habitat

Typically found in homes, grocery stores, and restaurants, especially near overripe fruit or fermenting organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds primarily on rotting or fermenting fruits and vegetables as well as the fungal growth (yeast) on them.

Behavior Patterns

Active year-round but most prevalent during harvest time. They exhibit high reproductive rates, laying hundreds of eggs in a very short lifespan (typically 8-15 days).

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest in homes. They do not bite but can contaminate food with bacteria and pathogens. In science, they are highly beneficial as a model organism for genetic and developmental research.

Identified on: 2/5/2026