Fruit Fly Larva

Natural Habitat

Found globally in kitchens, juice bars, restaurants, and near decomposing organic matter or overripe fruits.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feeds on yeast and bacteria growing on fermenting fruits and vegetables, as well as the decaying plant material itself.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae hatch from eggs laid on the surface of organic matter and burrow downward to eat. They undergo three molts (instars) before crawling to a dry spot to pupate.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest in households; they can potentially contaminate food with bacteria (like Salmonella) from the waste they live in. In science, they are highly beneficial as primary model organisms for genetic research.

Identified on: 1/14/2026