Fruit fly larva (maggot)

In and around fermenting organic materials, overripe fruits, vegetables, and drains.

Yeasts and fungi growing on decaying plant material.

The larvae hatch from eggs laid on organic matter and burrow into the material to feed before pupating. They are highly attracted to the scent of fermentation.

They are a common nuisance pest and can contaminate food products with bacteria, but they are crucial for decomposition in nature and serve as vital model organisms for genetic research.