
Community identification
Fruit fly larva (maggot)
Drosophila melanogaster
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera; Family: Drosophilidae
- Size
- 2.5 mm to 4 mm in length as mature final instar larvae.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in moist environments containing decaying organic matter, overripe fruit, or fermenting liquids.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on the yeast and bacteria growing on decaying fruit and other organic materials.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are largely continuous feeders that tunnel through their food source to maximize nutrient intake before moving to a drier surface to pupate.
Risks & Benefits
While generally not a direct health risk to humans, they are considered a major nuisance pest in kitchens and food facilities; they are invaluable as model organisms in genetic and biological research.