Bug Identifier
Fruit fly larva (maggot)
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.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.