Fruit fly, Vinegar fly

Natural Habitat

Commonly found around decaying fruit, vegetables, fermented goods, and other organic matter. Also found in kitchens, pantries, and sometimes outdoors near fruit trees or compost piles.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on yeast and bacteria found in fermenting fruits and vegetables, as well as sap and other sweet, decaying organic substances.

Behavior Patterns

Attracted by the smell of fermentation; rapidly reproduces. Females lay eggs on ripening or fermenting fruit. Larvae develop within the fruit, feeding on microorganisms. Adults are active flyers and short-lived.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Primarily a nuisance pest in homes and food establishments; can contaminate food with pathogens if present in large numbers, though often considered more of an aesthetic issue. Benefits: Important model organism in genetic and biological research.

Identified on: 9/16/2025