Fruit Fly

Worldwide, primarily in kitchens, gardens, and food processing facilities near decaying organic matter.

Mostly feeds on yeast found on overripe, fermenting, or decaying fruits and vegetables.

Rapid life cycle (from egg to adult in 8-10 days). Primarily active during the day; highly attracted to light and the scent of fermentation.

Risks: Can contaminate food with bacteria (like Salmonella). Benefits: Critical model organism in biological and genetic research.